Damascene Stained Glass (Al-Zujaj Al-Mu‘ashshaq)

Stained glass originated in Syria nearly two thousand years ago, dating back to the Phoenician era. Early artisans used gypsum and colored glass pieces to decorate mosques, churches, and palaces, focusing on geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy.

This craft flourished in Damascus, where artisans used molds to create double-sided pieces that interact with sunlight throughout the day, adding a dynamic artistic effect to windows and interior decorations.

Symbolism and Colors:

ü      Red in the center: symbolizes the sun and strength

ü     Yellow: symbolizes the sun, earth, and wheat

ü     Green: symbolizes goodness and trees

ü     Blue: symbolizes the sky and the sea

The craft relies on gypsum pieces of varying sizes arranged in specific geometric shapes, followed by the addition of colored glass prepared locally or imported. Tools include drills, saws, and wires, while supporting materials include plastic, hemp husks, paper coating, and adhesives.

Today, this craft is still practiced in Damascus workshops and showcased in heritage projects and cultural exhibitions, preserving this unique Damascene art and passing it on to future generations