'Damascus Room' at MIA offers a glimpse into Ottoman-era luxury

The Museum of Islamic Art’s (MIA) new addition to its permanent collection – a fully restored and reassembled 19th-century reception room from Damascus, Syria – offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent world of Ottoman-era luxury.According to Qatar Museums (QM), the ‘Damascus Room’ is now a permanent fixture at MIA’s galleries dedicated to the arts of Ottoman provinces. This interactive exhibit, titled ‘The Art of Hospitality: The Damascus Room,’ was meticulously assembled by a team of experts from QM after years of research and restoration.The room, produced by the Department of Digital Experience and MIA, showcases 427 individual pieces, including intricate wood carvings and stonework, painstakingly brought back together to create a portal through time.Originally completed in 1816/1817 CE, the room was discovered in 25 crates in a remote storage area in Doha in 2016. It provides a window into the life of Damascus during a period of significant trade and cultural exchange. The city, situated at the crossroads of major trade routes, was a vibrant hub for merchants, pilgrims, and cultural influencers.QM noted that the room demonstrates how opulent homes were not merely private, but also functioned as semi-public spaces for economic and social life. The interior decoration reflects the city's unique urban design aesthetic, blending Ottoman traditional patterns with Indo-Persian and European Rococo influences.QM added that this exhibit allows visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of Damascus, a chance to experience the craftsmanship and artistry of a bygone era. One of the highlights of the Damascus Room is the original ceiling, which conservation expert Dr Anke Scharrahs discovered was partially redecorated with 11th century AH/17th century CE paintings on the back of some panels. This resourceful practice was common at the time, providing a way to modernise homes.The room also features a raised seating area, furnished with low mattresses and cushions, and adorned with calligraphic inscriptions featuring poetry and the Beautiful Names of Allah. The intricate decorations, created using gold leaf, tinfoil, precious pigments, lacquers and mirrors, offer a glimpse into the artistic techniques and aesthetic preferences of the time.