D as in Damascene

Published on 10 June 2020, by Marielle Brie de Lagerac

This technique of decorating metal with inlaid copper, gold or silver reached its height in the East before catching on in Europe. Damascene is still a mark of luxury today.

Persian Pech Quabz knife, 19th century, iron handle and scabbard with gold and silver... D as in Damascene

Persian Pech Quabz knife, 19^th century, iron handle and scabbard with gold and silver damascene decoration, curved blade in curly damascene with silver cartouche.
Versailles, 23 novembre 2013. Éric Pillon Enchères OVV. 183 euros

Ancient Egypt already mastered damascening and used it on bronze. Then the technique traveled around the Mediterranean rim and was used on elegant Mycenaean swords. Gradually gold or silver was also inlaid into iron or steel. Asia followed suit, especially China, where damascening was practiced during the Warring States period (5 th -3 rd century BCE). The Middle East excelled at the technique, which was perfected in Damascus, hence its name : damascine, also called "damasquinure" or "damasquinage". Various damascening methods still exist. Two are based on Eastern traditions. The third method copies it with minimal effort. In the first two, copper , gold o r silver is inlaid…

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