Object Description
Damascening is the method whereby one metal, often precious, is laid into another, often base. Damascus, the ancient Syrian city, is known for its steel working—Damascene steel being famous in all ages—and the city gives its name to this decorative technique. The present handle demonstrates this method beautifully: gold has been inlaid into the iron of the handle in a remarkable pattern of geometrical forms and scrolling foliate motifs. The handle, most likely Syrian, is gently curving, its entire surface adorned with wonderful gold patterns.