DAMASK

Damask is a dense fabric with a fine, reversible pattern woven through the contrast of two weaving methods: a matte ornament emerges on a lustrous ground (or vice versa), so the design 'plays' depending on the angle of the light. Unlike brocade, in damask the pattern is flatter and most often single-coloured (though multicoloured damasks exist), and the design is visible on both sides of the fabric (in mirror image). The name comes from the city of Damascus — an important centre of silk weaving on the Silk Road. Damask is made of silk, linen, cotton or blended fibres, and classic motifs are floral, botanical, heraldic. The fabric is valued in interior furnishings, table linen and elegant dress. Damask is a refined, restrained luxury, in which the richness of the fabric speaks through a play of textures rather than through gold and relief.