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Volume 9, Issue 2 (9-2026)
KCR 2026, 9(2): 1-17 |
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Fadaei H, Mirzaye َ, Borhani-Ahang K. Conservation of Unearthed Stucco Decorations during the First Season of Excavations at the Qal‘eh-i Yazdigird Site. KCR 2026; 9 (2) :1-17
URL: http://journal.richt.ir/kcr/article-1-271-en.html
URL: http://journal.richt.ir/kcr/article-1-271-en.html
Research Centre for Conservation of Cultural Relics, Research Institute of Cultural Heritage and Tourism,
Abstract: (23 Views)
The stucco decorations of Yazdegerd Castle, located in Kermanshah Province, hold a significant place in the study of Parthian-period Iran. Nearly three decades after the initial excavations of the site by Edward J. Keall, further excavations carried out in 2008 by the late Dr Masoud Azarnoush led to the discovery of new stucco fragments. In light of the conservation challenges associated with these decorations, attention was drawn to the need for their in situ preservation. Many of the fragments recovered from debris and soil had suffered from erosion, delamination, or salt encrustation due to soluble salts present in the soil, rendering the detailed study of the motifs difficult or impossible. Moreover, some of the stucco elements still in situ on the walls were severely affected by erosion. This study employs both archival research and fieldwork to collect and assess information related to the site and its stucco decorations. Key conservation activities included the removal of surface deposits using physical and chemical methods, reassembly and consolidation of fragments, and the organisation of appropriate storage conditions for the finds. The research indicates that techniques such as one-piece or multi-part moulding, direct carving or chiselling, followed by manual finishing and, in some cases, polychrome painting, were employed in the production of the stucco decorations. The findings also highlight the necessity for specialised measures and ongoing interventions to ensure the preservation of stucco in open-air archaeological contexts. Given the large number of stucco fragments uncovered at Yazdegerd Castle, the design and implementation of a comprehensive and long-term conservation plan is essential for safeguarding this valuable heritage. In this regard, several recommendations are offered to improve current conditions and enhance the quality of future conservation efforts at the site.
Type of Study: Case Report |
Subject:
Executive reports on the conservation and restoration of objects in collections, museums, sites,
Received: 2025/07/21 | Accepted: 2026/07/12 | Published: 2026/09/29
Received: 2025/07/21 | Accepted: 2026/07/12 | Published: 2026/09/29
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