The German blade smiths have done a lot of study into the history and making of damascus. While we currently seem to be lacking extentive documentation, there had to be German barrel makers producing damascus tubes.
For some interesting reading:
http://www.tf.uni-kiel.de/matwis/amat/def_en/articles/serpent/serpent.htmlalso
http://www.tf.uni-kiel.de/matwis/amat/def_en/kap_5/advanced/t5_1_1.htmlThis is a close up of a pattern welded spearhead circa 800 AD
A blade with pattern welding, circa 1700-1800
Another good source for following the middle eastern theme is Robert Elgood, "Firearms of the Islamic World: in the Tared Rajab Museum, Kuwait". The Victoria and Albert Museum in England have held exhibits of oriental, Persian, Indian, Ottoman firearms. Some are exquisite examples of pattern welded damascus. This same museum has a large collection of iron work from around the world.
I remember Oscar mentioning the importance of blacksmiths working with structural and decorative iron. The source was one he uncovered at the university library. I tried to obtain a copy and was stumped. I spoke to him on the phone about it and he just laughed. The "book" was an old doctoral thesis on file there. I guess it helps to be a university professor.
Pete