STORY: Syrian craftsman strives to preserve ancient artistry
DATELINE: Aug. 9, 2023
LENGTH: 00:03:55
LOCATION: Damascus
CATEGORY: CULTURE
 
SHOTLIST:
1. various of craftsman Youssef al-Hamid making inlaid silver and brass
2. SOUNDBITE 1 (Arabic): YOUSSEF AL-HAMID, Syrian craftsman
3. various of Youssef al-Hamid working on inlaid silver and brass
4. SOUNDBITE 2 (Arabic): YOUSSEF AL-HAMID, Syrian craftsman
5. various of Youssef al-Hamid's work
6. SOUNDBITE 3 (Arabic): YOUSSEF AL-HAMID, Syrian craftsman
7. various of Youssef al-Hamid's son working
8. SOUNDBITE 4 (Arabic): YOUSSEF AL-HAMID, Syrian craftsman
 
STORYLINE:
 
In the Syrian capital Damascus, craftsman Youssef al-Hamid has been dedicated to preserving a time-honored craft.
 
With deft hands and excellent techniques passed down through generations, al-Hamid brings to life the intricate designs in copper, inlaying delicate silver threads to create breathtaking patterns.
 
As one of the last three remaining inheritors of this ancient craft, al-Hamid said he was worried about the future of his beloved craft.
 
SOUNDBITE 1 (Arabic): YOUSSEF AL-HAMID, Syrian craftsman
"I sound the alarm about the fate of this profession. I may work for another 10 years, and maybe I wouldn't be able to work more than that. So, I am afraid this craft would die out."
 
Al-Hamid's commitment to traditional craft faces an uphill battle, particularly during the 13-year-long Syrian war and the economic hardships.
 
SOUNDBITE 2 (Arabic): YOUSSEF AL-HAMID, Syrian craftsman
"There are a lot of difficulties in marketing the products, securing manpower, and buying raw materials and fuel."
 
Youssef's workshop is now somewhat isolated, as the products are unable to reach the global audience due to the U.S. and Western sanctions.
 
SOUNDBITE 3 (Arabic): YOUSSEF AL-HAMID, Syrian craftsman
"The sanctions have affected my business in terms of exports and tourism, as many people used to come from abroad and buy. And shipping is becoming more complicated. There are many countries that we can't ship our products to and the aerial cargo is so expensive. Some people want to buy from outside the country. They admit that the products made in Damascus are more beautiful, but they can't come to Damascus and buy it due to the sanctions. This is causing inconvenience."
 
Amidst the challenges and uncertainties, al-Hamid continues to etch his legacy in copper and silver and taught it to his two children, in the hope that this profession could survive if enough and adequate care was given to it.
 
SOUNDBITE 4 (Arabic): YOUSSEF AL-HAMID, Syrian craftsman
"What we are doing now has become rare. I hope there is more care for people who have patience and are in love with their craftsmanship. I love it, and I'm so fond of it. The more I work, the more new things I'll come up with."
 
Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Damascus.
(XHTV)