New book documents finds of the Syrian Museum of Damascus
Syria, Book Review, 5/10/2005

A new book was recently published by the General Directorate of Antiquities and Museums in collaboration with Syria "Shell Oil Company." The 190 page illustrated book by renowned British photographer Nicholas Randal spots light on major themes featuring the highlights of the National Museum of Damascus for four historical epochs extending from the prehistoric to the recent Islamic periods.

In a statement to ArabicNews.com Nicholas Randal said that his company "Media Minds," was contacted on behalf of Syria Shell to produce this book and the selection was made on the ground of his earlier book under the title "Syria revealed" which was also another illustrated book telling the story in all walks of life. Randal said the two books are very different in terms of subject matter. He explained that "Syria Revealed" is a portrait of Syria today and covers many different sides to the country. Naturally all the photographs were taken outside, of people and places, with the aim to sum up the best impressions of the country.

As for the "Damascus National Museum book" project Randal said it was done entirely in a studio setting. He said he arranged with of the Museum staff, a working studio within the Museum.

He also indicated that both books have similarities in terms of style and format, adding that Museum book is going to be innovative in its layout and a lot of care is being taken on the design.

He said that Syria is blessed with such a fascinating history, that all eras are interesting in their own way. In terms of aesthetics, the Classic period and the Roman art in particular is as beautiful as anything can be. He said he has photographed some absolutely wonderful pieces of Roman sculpture and jewellery. And that his favorite era is the Ancient Syrian. He noted his unmatched experience while holding in his hand the Ugarit stone with the world's earliest alphabet is something incredible, describing the statues from Mari, 3000BC, are uniquely beautiful. He explained that for him this era is unique to Syria and the region.

He indicated the close special interest given by the General Directorate of Antiquities and Museums to this project. Randal in particular noted that that the curators at the Museum have done a great and a difficult job, to select the pieces that will be used the book.

Revealing his general impressions on Syria he said "Syria really is a second home for me. I feel very at ease here. I love the food and find the people very friendly. I think all foreigners who stay here for a while fall under Syria's spell." He continued that there is something very special about this country and it is a shame that so many outsiders have such a different image of Syria. He expressed hope that his two book projects contribute in some way to spreading the news about what a great place Syria is.

In a similar statement to ArabicNews.com "Shell Syria" general manger Campbell Keir said the project is carried out in the framework of Shell Syria aspirations to support the community development in the country. He elaborated that many meetings were concluded with the Ministry of Culture that showed all cooperation and assistance to develop a "National Museum book" on the gems of the National Museum, masterpieces of successive ancient civilizations to Syria. These objects would be photographed and introduced to the public so as their importance and historical value will be known all over the world.

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