Our specialist techniques of damascene, khatam and mehr kari are complimented by the use of marquetry, inlay, overlay and gold leafing, where we translate traditional skills and techniques to produce both contemporary and traditional furniture, giftware and joinery.
Veneers are selected for grain and colour then precisely cut using CNC laser technology to form the component pieces in the marquetry jigsaw. This is the first tangible stage of the artist’s creation in a solid form.
Our team of carvers span generations. They are skilled in all styles and techniques, from fine and extremely detailed to deep and dramatic statements.
Our craftsmen carve with passion, elegance and creativity and their attention to detail is world renowned.
The solid wood chosen for our turned components has been through a rigorous process of grading and checking before selection.
Traditional wooden lathes are used to produce elements for our joinery, furniture and accessories range. Each individual piece is turned and sanded, then checked for appearance and size.
Our workshop is highly skilled in custom fabrication. We create unique handles, hinges and other decorative items in brass, steel, aluminum and copper using metal lathes, etching, welding, wire cutting, acid or water cutting machines.
Items can be plated in gold, silver, nickel, copper or brass to complete and customize your commission.
The use of hot sand gives the chosen pieces of marquetry their ombre/graduated colour and definition.
The skill of the craftsman lies in their ability to visualize the overall design and choosing the exact point and degree of singeing that should be applied to the individual pieces.
The ability to define and control this technique is what results in a stunning and harmonious pattern.
Creating these masterpieces is an artform that involves laying the component pieces together to form stunning designs. The intricacy and detail are the tangible result of the designer’s concept.
These techniques which create solid inlays are an integral part of the Shamsian brand.
The intricate build-up of many small pieces of various timbers, with or without the inclusion of metals, create mosaics and pattern.
It takes many weeks or even months of patient skill to create a single pattern.
The birth of Mehr Kari is the result of Mohammed Shamsian’s collaboration with his master and mentor.
Pieces of timber are individually wrapped in a fine layer of solid brass before being assembled making this process totally unique.
Its versatility allows it to be used as an inlay, band or a full sheet.
For many this outstanding technique is the gold standard in furniture, joinery and accessory embellishment.
The marquetry must first be placed on the intended substrate for pressing.
Khatam, Damascene and Mehr Kari are then inlaid, along with any solid metal and Mother of Pearl, dependent on design.
Once all the components are brought together the surface is ready for finishing.
An essential stage prior to polishing when the sanding and cleaning takesplace so that any minor defects are identified and rectified
A combination of stains, lacquers, resins and waxes are applied by hand, using brush, cloth or spray gun.
Fine sanding and quality checks are carried out between each application.
The sanding process is critical between each polishing stage to ensure depth and quality of finish is achieved.
Gilding is an artform which requires precision, patience, and a steady hand. Carried out in our workshop under controlled temperature and humidity, our gilding adds a highlight and timeless elegance.
