In the historic markets of Syria's northern city of Aleppo, artisan Eyman Said is working to preserve a traditional wood relief art that dates back about 1,400 years by teaching the family craft to his son.
Said, 42, has practiced the craft for three decades, creating raised decorative wooden panels adorned with traditional Arabesque motifs and Arabic calligraphy in a workshop in Aleppo's historic souks. As demand for the centuries-old art has declined, he hopes passing on his skills will help ensure its survival.
Syrian artisan Eyman Said paints a traditional wood relief panel at his workshop, Aleppo, Syria, July 28, 2026. (AA Photo)
Once widely used to decorate the ceilings and walls of mosques, churches and palaces, the art has largely disappeared from modern architecture. Today, it is more commonly found on decorative boxes, wall hangings and other handcrafted wooden items.
Examples of the craft can still be seen in historic landmarks, including the Throne Hall of the Citadel of Aleppo and Jerusalem's Al-Aqsa Mosque.
