Damascene, or “damasquinado,” is the Moorish art of inlaying gold or silver threads into black steel. It is a popular handicraft not only in Toledo but also throughout Spain. ( Scott Schonauer / S&S) In addition to its swords, Toledo is renowned for its damasquinados, or damascene handicrafts and costume jewelry.
What craft is Toledo Spain known for?
Old Town, Toledo
Toledo is known for its traditional crafts, including damascene metalwork, antique-inspired swords, and handmade marzipan (sweet almond candies).
What is damascene art?
Damascening is the art of inlaying different metals into one another—typically, gold or silver into a darkly oxidized steel background—to produce intricate patterns similar to niello. The English term comes from a perceived resemblance to the rich tapestry patterns of damask silk.
What is a damascene jewelry?
Damascene is engraved and ornamented with metal (silver or gold) and black enamel. This unique jewelry originated in the 14t00’s in Damascus – thus, its name. Furthermore, damascening is the technique of ornamenting various metals into one another in hopes to generate intricate designs that are parallel to niello.
What is damascene gold?
Damascening is the product of chiseling and inlaying different metals, typically gold or silver, into a dark, oxidize steel background. In jewelry, usually there are little scenes or patterns made. It’s a beautiful process, traditionally hand done.
What is Toledo best known for?
What is Toledo Most Famous For?
- Toledo Cathedral.
- Plaza Zocodover.
- Toledo Train Vision.
- Alcázar Fortress.
- Museum of Santa Cruz.
- Mirador del Valle.
- San Juan de los Reyes Monastery.
- Teatro de Rojas.
Why is Toledo Spain famous?
Located on the banks of the Tagus in central Iberia, Toledo is known as the “Imperial City” because it was the main venue of the court of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor in Spain, and as the “City of the Three Cultures” for the cultural influences of Christians, Muslims, and Jews reflected in its history.
What is Toledo damascene jewelry?
In addition to its swords, Toledo is renowned for its damasquinados, or damascene handicrafts and costume jewelry. Damascening is the Moorish art of inlaying gold or silver threads into black steel in a decorative pattern. The skill is used to decorate plates, earrings, bracelets and large pendants.
What is komai damascene?
The Komai family worked as a sword furniture maker in Kyoto for generations. It was a father of Otojiro Komai (and a grandfather of Seibei Komai) who in 1853 originated a form of damascene (or Japaneze Zogan) used to ornament and decorate swords, guns, daggers and various types of sword furniture.
How old is damascene jewelry?
In fact, many speculate the technique used to create damascene pieces originated in the Middle East and spread to other regions via Muslim artisans as early as the 8th century.
How do you clean damascene jewelry?
mascene, use a clean damp cloth or chamois and rub gently. You may also add a drop of mild dish detergent to the water to remove dirt. Jewelry cleaning cloths also work very well for cleaning and preserving Damasquino.
Where is damascene jewelry made?
Damascene Jewelry | Toledo Gold Hand Crafted in Toledo Spain.
How is damascene made?
Damascene is a surface decoration process that involves the inlaying of gold wire or silver into an undercut groove in the surface of bronze, iron or steel. Another form is the machining of curved line pattern into the surface of a metal. Watch parts are damascened by machine for a swirled or wavy finish.
What does the word Toledo mean?
Definition of Toledo
: a finely tempered sword of a kind made in Toledo, Spain.
What does the name Toledo mean?
Toledo Surname Definition:
From the latin “toletum” – city of generations. Place name not only in Spain but also Bolivia and Uruguay. It is thought that this is from the Hebrew word “toledoth” meaning generation.
Is Toledo worth visiting?
Home to one of Spain’s best-preserved old towns (and the country’s second-biggest church!), Toledo in central Castilla-La Mancha region is a must-visit. Here are 10 incredible things to do in Toledo, including the best of the UNESCO-listed medieval city.
What language is spoken in Toledo Spain?
Castilian Spanish is the official language but in the regions, Basque, Catalan and Galician are spoken.
Is Toledo Spain beautiful?
There are many beautiful cities in Spain and Toledo is one of them. The small city is filled with history and picture-perfect scenes waiting around every corner. So, what are all the things to do in Toledo that make it a must-stop on any Spain itinerary?
Why is Toledo called the city of Three Cultures?
Toledo is known as “The City of the Three Cultures,” as it was a rare city where Christians, Muslims, and Jews lived and co-existed together. All of this background is important because it explains why Toledo is a great city to study culture and history in.