Damascus, Once the World Leading Centre of Astronomy
In the 14th century, Syria had two of the most notable astronomers who contributed to the world of astronomy and the Syrian Muslim community. Al Khalili came up with tables
July 3, 2024
Yervant StepanianYervant Stepanian
A centenarian pioneer enriching Damascus' heritage, introducing the transformative Jacquard technique to elevate the city's iconic brocade industry.
The 100-year-old Damascene Syrian/Armenian, Yervant Stepanian, was one of the city’s many special gems. Born at the start of the French Mandate in Syria & Lebanon, he moved from Beirut and settled in Damascus in 1937 at the age of 16 for better economic opportunities. He introduced the Jacquard card cutting technique to Damascus. The Jacquard machine greatly simplified the process of manufacturing patterned textiles (mainly silk), which helped expand Damascus’ production of its iconic brocades.
Yervant was one of the significant figures in the art of silk-making and brocade in the book “La Soie et L’orient” (Silk & the Orient) by Florence Ollivry & photographer Rima Maroun.
