Joseph B. Touma's first exposure to Damascene metalwork was during high school and college, when he spent seven

years of his life in the Christian quarter of the old city of Damascus. He was surrounded by traditional crafts, including

metalwork of all kinds. Many of the nearby artisans specialized in silver-and-gold-inlaid work.

During his first visit to Damascus after completing his medical training in the United States, his interest in and love for

this artform were awakened. While visiting his parents, he returned to the old city and was surprised to find artisans

creating the same beautiful work he had first observed many years earlier. This resulted in 45 years of collecting, studying

and learning about authentic Damascene metalwork, always working to add unique and highly artistic pieces to his

collection.

Dr. Touma with the support of his wife Omayma and their family, decided to donate the entire collection of over 300

pieces to the Huntington Museum of Art so that all who visit will have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of this unique

artform. The enjoyment of viewing the collection will be enhanced by viewing this book. It is introduced by Dr. Marcus

Milwright and Dr. Walter Denny, two of the leading authorities on Near Eastern Art.

Dr. Touma's hope is that readers will enjoy this book and the artform that it celebrates.