Mr. Zaher Samir, A Pioneer of Inlaying Wood with Shell: An Intriguing Tradition from Damascus Heart!

Two centuries ago, the history of art and beauty started in the centre of Damascus. Beginning in the palaces of monarchs and sultans, the art of inlaying wood with shells expanded throughout the world. A privilege for Arabisk London to have Mr. Zaher Samir, the founder of Original Antique, speak about this incredible line of work.

Interviewer: Fatima Omrani 

The tale, which was exclusive to Damascus, started in the palaces of kings and sultans two centuries ago. From there, the enchantment extended over the entire world. Could you tell us more about this craft, Mr. Zahir? You were among the first to carve and inlay wood with shells.

As you know, this handicraft is over two hundred years old. It started on a small scale in the heart of Damascus because the works were solely for monarchs, sultans, and affluent families. This is due to the manufacturing process’s difficulties, which primarily rely on the ornamental mounting of genuine seashells inside the wood. Following carving, each piece of shell, which can only be one centimetre in size, is placed on wood separately.

Damascus is the only city in the world to produce this handicraft, which makes it both difficult and unique. Actually, this craft has been passed down through the generations in our family. My father obtained the Original Antique from his father in 1911, when it was known as “The House of Oriental Antiques,” and he founded the business in 1961.

As a result, our generation—the third generation—inherited it. As an academic with a focus on interior design, I, Zaher Samir, have grown up in the arms of this industry.

Your early years spent at your father’s shop sparked your interest in this line of work. How did it make you feel to watch your father at work? And did you want to pursue his career?

My story began at a young age when I used to watch all the handicrafts in Damascus during the summer holiday. I have always thought this handicraft deserves more spread and brilliance, like the Italian and international pieces. So, I began to practise it with passion and ambition to develop it.

Your academic background has helped to give your items a unique personality. Describe your time in school. Did your desire to pursue this craft influence your choice of specialisation?

As I mentioned earlier, I grew up loving this profession, which motivated me to develop this craft to make it more contemporary and increase its global spread. My expertise in interior design allowed me to add modern touches to this age-old art, making it more harmonious and in line with the current global decoration trends.

From a store in Damascus, the company has grown to become a major global exporter of high-end furniture. How did Original Antique get its start?

As previously stated, my father received this business from my grandfather, and our third generation began to grow. We are currently working to open a branch in America after opening one in the Netherlands.

One of the most significant businesses offering high-end furniture services nowadays is Original Antique. How did you get to this prestigious level?

Thanks to God Almighty, from the beginning of the establishment of this company, we have maintained the quality of our products, which has granted us the trust of our customers. Moreover, we always aim to be the best pioneer of this ancient handicraft to increase its lovely audience.

“Handmade” or “handicraft” identifies your products. Are all of your items handmade?

Yes, the thing that distinguishes this handicraft from others is that it is one of the few rare industries made by hand during all of its phases, despite all the development in other professions and industries. Each piece needs a long time, perhaps several months, to be prepared.

How are carving and inlaying wood with shells different from mosaic art?

The industry is entirely different in principle, as inlaying wood with shells requires carving inside the wood, while in mosaic, the shell is glued to the wood without carving.

What are your main export destinations? Is there demand from non-Arab markets such as the United Kingdom, Europe, or elsewhere?

The most prominent destination is the Arabian Gulf because this profession has spread there. Concerning foreign markets, the lack of spread of this profession is the main reason that prevents us from determining the answer accurately. However, from a general perspective, European and American people are impressed by the fact that our products are made by hand, despite the development in the world today. They appreciate very much what we manufacture.

What were the most significant challenges you faced while practising this craft, which demands a high degree of expertise from its makers?

It is difficult to find numerous employees every day, unlike in other businesses, because the profession is not an industrial one created by a machine. The craftsman requires having a natural talent that our creative instruction can improve.

You are currently teaching classes in the production of high-end furniture, Mr. Zaher. Do you believe that these classes will prevent the extinction of this art?

We are frequently asked to host training sessions, particularly for young people. Since our doors are always open to anyone who wants to learn the fundamentals of this skill, I am always eager to create videos outlining the steps and how to make such items. Global dissemination and expansion of this historical legacy are necessary.

Besides, our vision is to constantly head towards expanding until we reach our goal and universality. Our handicraft is no less critical than any luxurious Italian product, with quality and durability.

What has Original Antique accomplished in recent years? Do you think your presentation today was satisfactory?

We have succeeded in spreading throughout the Arab world and certain Western nations, and we are still working to do so worldwide.

What guidance would you offer start-up pioneers as an exceptional pioneer who has made a lasting impact on their career?

What distinguishes the craftsman is maintaining the traditional way of this handicraft. I advise every beginner not to go towards ease in manufacturing nor to use machines in this handicraft, such as a laser machine. This is the fast-paced era’s trap, which would cause the profession to lose its soul. Another crucial element is that an artisan should pursue their passion to succeed at all levels. This will force him to innovate in the fields where he finds his goal.

You can visit the original Antique website: http://www.original-antique.com/

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