Search published articles


Study of Technology and Corrosion in two Bronze daggers belongs to Second Millennium BC, excavated from Garu Archaeological site
Hamidreza Bakhshandehfard, Sedighe Taheri,
Volume 1, Issue 1 (4-2017)
Abstract
The objects of the study are two bronze daggers dated back to the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age. They lack any ornaments and there is corrosion and oxidation in their surface. The purpose of this study is to recognize the technological and pathological research on the mentioned objects through comparative and pathological studies and library method, to conduct the technological and pathological research through laboratory method (wet chemistry, radiography, metallography, metal core elemental analysis by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), analysis of corrosion by X-ray diffraction (XRD) in order to identify the metal and making techniques and to determine the types of damage, and finally to perform the conservation and restoration of the these objects through the conservation plan.
After studying and conducting experiments mentioned, it was determined that the material of the objects was bronze with carbonate and chloride corrosion. The making methods in these objects is casting and hammering. They were recognized to belong to the Iron Age.

Studying the Mechanism of Creation of Blue and White Underglaze Tiles of Shah Hamzeh's Mausoleum in Qom
Roqiyeh Movahedi Mehrabad , Reza Vahidzadeh,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (10-2017)
Abstract
The Shah Hamzeh mausoleum, located in the city of Qom, is a monument from the Safavid period. The eastern porch of this monument was decorated blue and white tiles during the Qajar period. The aim of this article is to introduce the historical monument of Shah Hamzeh and its decorations. In this regard, a sample of the blue and white tiles of the monument was technologically examined using library studies, optical and digital microscope methods, and SEM-EDX and XRD methods. Based on the studies conducted, the paint layer was applied directly to the stone body without a preparatory layer, and then a glass layer was applied on it.
The Shah Hamzeh mausoleum, located in the city of Qom, is a monument from the Safavid period. The eastern porch of this monument was decorated blue and white tiles during the Qajar period. The aim of this article is to introduce the historical monument of Shah Hamzeh and its decorations. In this regard, a sample of the blue and white tiles of the monument was technologically examined using library studies, optical and digital microscope methods, and SEM-EDX and XRD methods. Based on the studies conducted, the paint layer was applied directly to the stone body without a preparatory layer, and then a glass layer was applied on it.

A review of the erosion process resulting from chloride attacks in samples of copper and silver-based artifacts
Shaiba Khadir, Parastoo Naeimi Taraei,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (10-2017)
Abstract
Given the nature of the chloride ion and its tendency to penetrate the inner layers of the metal, paying attention to it in the field of protection of metal artifacts is of great importance. In this article, the effect of the attacking chloride ion on historical copper and silver-based metals has been discussed, and according to the results of a long-term research project on the pathology of metal artifacts in Iran, various examples of artifacts affected by chloride attacks have been briefly presented and compared. In conducting corrosion studies in the aforementioned project, X-ray imaging, optical microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy, and wet and instrumental analysis methods (EDX, XRD, PIXE) were used to analyze the corrosion process. According to the studies conducted, severe pitting corrosion with progressive conditions was observed in the works of the Rasht Museum, as well as corrosion of the tin-rich phase and its simultaneous release as oxide compounds in many of the mirrors in this museum, which in many cases had a starting point under surface sediments when local conditions were provided. This process in the works in museums in southern Iran with high humidity conditions and with chlorides concentrated in the corrosion products has caused the loss of the metal core in many of the works obtained from Hormuz. The concentration and crystallization of chloride in the corrosion layers and the attacks caused by it in the works of the dry regions of Iran, despite periodic humidity or uncontrolled storage conditions after excavation, is the cause of the loss of the metal core of many of the works obtained from Sites such as Sarm, Qoli Darvish, and Sialk have been affected by chloride attacks through different mechanisms, from chloride penetration into the oxide layer to the dissolution and removal of copper from the outer layers. Silver artifacts obtained from different sites have also been affected by chloride attacks, due to the presence of horn silver chloride compounds (Sialk), severe local corrosion (Hormoz), and intermittent copper deposition and the deposition of its chloride salts (Teppeh-e-Hisar).

Technology of Three Samples of Black-Glazed and Turquoise-Glazed Pottery from Ancient Jorjan
Arman Razm, Hossein Ahmadi, Abbas Abed Esfahani ,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (10-2017)
Abstract
Many artifacts found in the places where ancient communities lived in Jurjan indicate the antiquity of life in this region. Much evidence of Jurjan's importance in historical periods, including the Achaemenid, Sassanid, and Seleucid periods, can be found in inscriptions from that period. During the Seljuk period, Jurjan was the cradle of science, literature, art, and industry in northern Iran, and was one of the country's important centers for glassmaking, pottery, and metalworking, and the use of glazes on pottery. The use of black patterns and turquoise glazes is abundant in pottery objects excavated in Jurjan. In this study, three samples of pottery with this type of glaze in the Jurjan region were examined in terms of technology, and the manufacturing method and materials used in them were studied. In this regard, the glazes were identified using digital microscopy, polarizing optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis. According to microscopic images of the cross-sections of the samples, the glazing method is underglaze and three layers are visible to create the glaze. First, a milky layer called engobe is created on the surface of the pottery, then black patterns are applied on it, and finally a layer of transparent turquoise glaze covers the entire surface.

Conservation of Historical Papers by Using Titanium oxide/Zinc oxide/Cationic Starch Nanocomposites
Gholamreza Rahmani, Abdolghafar Abolhosseini Shahrnoy , Peyman Afsar ,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (10-2017)
Abstract
The most important part of the archives of libraries and museums of each country are the historical papers that can be damage by various factors. Chemical damaging agents of paper such as oxidation and acidic hydrolysis effects have always been a major challenge for refiners and researchers in the field. Nanotechnology is one of the most effective and innovative tools to reduce the rate of degradation. In this study, we tried to use titanium oxide/zinc oxide/cationic starch nanocomposite to prevent the oxidation process. For this purpose, titanium oxide/zinc oxide nanocomposite as well as cationic starch were applied. Herein, in addition to stopping the oxidation process, de-acidification and consolidation were also observed at the same time. Also, in this method by several steps were combined in a single step that could be led to saving in the material consumption and time. Various instrumental analysis such as infrared spectroscopy, electron microscopy images, paper tensile strength measurements and accelerated thermal aging were used to investigate the chemical and physical properties. The results showed that the coating of paper with titanium oxide/zinc oxide/cationic starch nanocomposite in compare with titanium oxide/ zinc oxide nanocomposite and cationic starch was more effective and approved as an antioxidant agent.

Micro-Observation: Magnifying Hidden Secrets in Historical Artifacts
Mandana Tayebi ,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (10-2017)
Abstract
Archaeological artifacts represent the cultures and civilizations of the past, carrying invaluable information about daily life, beliefs, technology, and social relations of those times. With advancements in technology, new tools and methods have emerged for examining and analyzing these artifacts, providing new insights into their unknown aspects.Micro-observation emphasizes the systematic and detailed examination of artifacts and the use of innovative techniques, playing a key role in the conservation and restoration of cultural and historical objects. This article reviews various techniques of micro-observation, such as microscopic studies, high-resolution imaging, 3D scanning, and spectroscopy analysis, demonstrating how these technologies contribute to a deeper understanding of the initial conditions of materials and patterns of degradation. Additionally, presented case studies illustrate the successful applications of micro-observation in various fields, highlighting its diversity and effectiveness in addressing specific challenges in the conservation and restoration of fragile and valuable objects.

Conservation During the First Season of Archaeological Excavations at the Chogha Zanbil World Heritage Site, Winter 1999
Hamid Fadaei, Azita Mirzaye,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (10-2017)
Abstract
This study investigates and evaluates emergency conservation methods at the Chogha Zanbil archaeological site, focusing on the conservation of excavated features including shafts, shallow grids, and architectural remains. The primary objective of these interventions was to Conservation of Excavated Remains against environmental factors such as moisture, erosion, and gradual decay, either temporarily or over extended periods. The research methodology involved field observations, assessment of available materials, and reference to previous conservation practices at the site. The use of crushed gravel and sand with a variable grain size between 2 and 20 millimeters was recommended for backfilling trenches and shafts. Care was taken to avoid impurities such as gypsum, anhydrite, and various sulfates, which could contribute to the formation of soluble salts and damage the archaeological features. The protective coverage of shafts, networks, and the exposed brick platform was implemented in a phased manner, based on their depth and archaeological significance. For deeper shafts, stratified layers of gravel and soft soil with appropriate compaction were employed, while shallow grids were covered with a thin layer of gravel followed by backfilling with excavated soil. Special attention was given to the conservation of the inscribed brick platform, which was protected using a base layer of fine sand. The findings indicate that the use of natural materials combined with scientifically informed and experience-based approaches can be effective in the temporary or long-term conservation of excavated features in archaeological sites.

Unveiling the Identities of Rawlinson's Two Companions in the Inscription on the Behistun Rock (1844): Captain James Felix Jones and Mr. A. Hector
Mehdi Razani,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (10-2017)
Abstract
The Behistun Inscription, one of the most significant historical documents in the world, was commissioned by Darius the Great of the Achaemenid Empire in the 6th century BCE. In 1844, Henry Rawlinson, a British orientalist, along with two others, inscribed their names on this monument. While Rawlinson's identity is well-documented, the identities of his two companions, Captain James Felix Jones and Mr. A. Hector, have remained obscure. This article, through the examination of historical sources and archival records, seeks to uncover the identities of these two individuals. Captain Jones, a distinguished officer of the Indian Navy and a renowned cartographer, participated in numerous exploratory missions across the Middle East and played a pivotal role in producing detailed maps of the border regions between Iran and the Ottoman Empire. On the other hand, Mr. Hector, whose name is only recorded as Hester beneath the inscription and in all written sources, has no available information beyond his association with Rawlinson. He likely served as a researcher or scientific companion during this expedition. This research demonstrates that the collaboration of these three figures marked a significant step in deciphering the Behistun Inscription and advancing the fields of archaeology and Middle Eastern history, highlighting the efforts of renowned experts in this historical and cultural endeavor.

Iranian Stone Architecture: The Necessity of Re-examining Its Evolution and Stylistic Development
Mehdi Razani,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (7-2017)
Abstract
Building materials, particularly stone, play a fundamental role in shaping architectural styles and identity. Despite the long history of stone usage in Iranian architecture, this material has seldom been studied independently and analytically in stylistic research. Stone architecture—from early natural spaces such as caves to hand-carved dwellings across Iran, and from prominent governmental and religious structures throughout various historical periods up to the contemporary era—provides a valuable context for understanding the relationship between materials, construction technology, and stylistic evolution. This brief article aims to introduce a systematic classification framework for Iranian stone architecture, emphasizing the necessity of re-examining this field from a stylistic perspective. In addition to exploring the reasons behind the relative neglect of this subject, the study examines how different forms of stone contribute to the remarkable diversity of building materials. Furthermore, it investigates the various applications of stone in architecture to analyze the stylistic features of Iranian stone architecture, independent of ruling dynasties and historical periods

Studying the Mechanism of Creation of Blue and White Underglaze Tiles of Shah Hamzeh's Mausoleum in Qom
Roqiyeh Movahedi Mehrabad , Reza Vahidzadeh,
Volume 2, Issue 1 (6-2019)
Abstract
The Shah Hamzeh mausoleum, located in the city of Qom, is a monument from the Safavid period. The eastern porch of this monument was decorated blue and white tiles during the Qajar period. The aim of this article is to introduce the historical monument of Shah Hamzeh and its decorations. In this regard, a sample of the blue and white tiles of the monument was technologically examined using library studies, optical and digital microscope methods, and SEM-EDX and XRD methods. Based on the studies conducted, the paint layer was applied directly to the stone body without a preparatory layer, and then a glass layer was applied on it.
The Shah Hamzeh mausoleum, located in the city of Qom, is a monument from the Safavid period. The eastern porch of this monument was decorated blue and white tiles during the Qajar period. The aim of this article is to introduce the historical monument of Shah Hamzeh and its decorations. In this regard, a sample of the blue and white tiles of the monument was technologically examined using library studies, optical and digital microscope methods, and SEM-EDX and XRD methods. Based on the studies conducted, the paint layer was applied directly to the stone body without a preparatory layer, and then a glass layer was applied on it.

Technological Recognition and Damage Study in One of the Three Bronze Rods Excavated from Tehran-Qarchak Pardis Tepe Cemetery
Hamid Reza Bakhshandehfard, Hosna Rabeie,
Volume 3, Issue 1 (6-2020)
Abstract
The cemetery of the Pardis Tepe, located in Qarchak of Tehran province, is a valuable historic landmark of the Iron Age which has been discovered in the excavations of these bronze wire objects. Despite the historical importance of the metal objects discovered in Tehran, no independent research has been carried out on the metal objects obtained from this site, in terms of technological and pathological aspects, using laboratory and methodological methods. The aim of this paper was to study a bronze rod found in Tepe Pardis, in terms of species and application, regarding technical questions about elemental combinations and the method of making and technological position of the study area. For this purpose, instrumental analysis methods such as AAS, SEM-EDS were used to identify the alloying technique, the chemical composition of the alloy, and metallography to identify the manufacturing method. Historical studies of the object attributed it to the Iron Age. Based on elemental data analysis, the composition used to make copper-tin alloy objects (bronze) and microstructure analysis by metallography, these objects were made by continuous thermal / mechanical operations. Depending on the results of the XRD test, cuprite, malachite and nantokite compounds were identified in corrosion products. Due to the significant presence of Nantokite, it can be said that the object has active corrosion.

Emergency conservation and restoration of the architectural ornaments of the Central room in Aeram house, Yazd
Hamed Yaqbzadeh, Yaser Hamzavi,
Volume 6, Issue 4 (3-2024)
Abstract
Many projects in the field of Protection, conservation and finally restoration of historical monuments are carried out in the country every year, However, there is unfortunately no suitable platform for sharing the practical experiences in this field within the country, which could significantly enhance the quality of these protection and restoration efforts nationwide. Emergency reinforcement of architectural ornaments is often necessary during the restoration of historical buildings. For this purpose, the restorer of architectural ornaments must create safe conditions to preserve the existing ornaments during the restoration of the building. Eram House in Yazd is one of the Qajar-era buildings in Yazd city that is currently about to be restored and repurposed. This
building, in the Central Room, features plasterwork, mirror and glass ornaments, as well as wall paintings with plant motifs and inscriptions. Due to the damage in the various layers of the architectural ornaments restorers faced challenges in reinforcing the structure and restoring the deteriorated parts of the building. Structural restoration measures posed a risk of destroying these ornaments; since the cracks indicating structural movement had caused the ornaments to detach and loosen from their underlying layers, which include: support (brick), scratch coat (straw), and top-layer (fine coat), all of which require reinforcement. The entire surface of walls, except for the ceiling wall in the Eram House, has an additional layer of gypsum plaster coating, which has obscured parts of the gypsum stucco ornaments and murals. Therefore, it is necessary to identify the hidden ornaments in different parts by conducting soundings in the walls of the Central Room of Eram House.
In some places, the walls need careful reinforcement by the building restorers. However, the presence of murals in these areas, limits the possibility of any reinforcement measures. Thus, the murals at these points should be separated carefully from the walls and preserved. After completing structural reinforcement, the murals should be reinstalled in their original locations. The main goal of this project was to stabilize the existing arrays in the king's room and also to create suitable conditions for any structural restoration interventions in the building. Therefore, in line with the projectives objectives as the conditions of placement and considering the placement conditions of works and materials, as well as the type and extent of damage in different parts of the room, an emergency strengthening method was selected. Restoration materials were prepared according to each method, as presented in Table 1. This article is not a result of comprehensive research. but rather an account of an emergency
intervention experience. The intervention focused on a strengthening approach, to achieve the needed stability, allowing building restorers to carry out structural reinforcement and restoration without concern. In this context, understanding the remaining of architectural arrays is crucial, Subsequently, key the questions were addressed to guide the restorers: what is the type and extent of the damage? Which damages require strengthening at this stage? to what extent should this operation progress? What method should be adopted for each architectural array with various damages? Ultimately, emergency strengthening was carried out on the ceiling and walls of the palace, encompassing plaster arrays, mirror and glass arrays, as well as murals. In several parts of the murals, due to the sever condition of the underlying layers (cause by Saudi humidity), it was decided to separate the mural pieces. This article provides a detailed, description of the practical emergency reinforcement measures undertaken on the architectural arrays of Eram House in Yazd.

Conservation and Restoration Operations of the Metal Clogs of the Iran Carpet Museum
Shaiba Khadir, Fathollah Niyazi, Kouorsh Kouhestani,
Volume 6, Issue 4 (3-2024)
Abstract
The "Clogs of the Kaaba" at the Iran Carpet Museum is a pair of metal/ copper alloy shoes by Parviz Tanavoli for an outdoor installation. The work is part of a memorial chapel designed minimalist style within the museum’s grounds. The clogs are crafted to a life-size scale, with their surfaces textured with fine and delicate grooves to enhance their aesthetic and visual appeal. The artist has also applied a dark artistic patina to the surface of the clogs. The interior of the clogs has accumulated dust, soot, and debris from the surrounding greenery. Additionally, prolonged exposure to environmental conditions such as annual rainfall, seasonal temperature variations, and urban pollutants such as acid rain has affected their condition on the ground. The surface of the clogs shows green corrosion products and carbonate deposits. the aim of this operation is to stabilize the clogs and prevent further exposure to harmful urban environmental factors. In order to evaluate and document the current condition, digital photography was conducted on both a macroscopic and microscopic scales. Surface sediment removal was carried out using manual mechanical methods with a scalpel and ultrasonic device. The poultice method was applied in a controlled and limited manner to remove thick sediments using Rachel's salt solution and%2 hydrochloric acid. To protect the surface, a %3 BTA (benzotiazol: C6H5N3) solution was used, followed by a coating of epoxy polyamide solution.

Page 1 from 1