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Showing 220 results for Type of Study: Research, Original, Regular

Seyed Iraj Beheshti, Sheyda Ashrafi, Siamak Sarlak,
Volume 5, Issue 3 (12-2022)
Abstract

Petrographic studies play a significant role in understanding the structural characteristics and compositions of ceramic artifacts, contributing to the identification of cultural transformations and exchanges based on technical changes in these objects. As such, it is consistently a central component of studies on analyzable artifacts. The archaeological site of Qoli Darvish, located 3 km south of the city of Qom, spans over an area of approximately 30 hectares and contains valuable archaeological remains, including distinctive types of pottery ranging from the Early Bronze Age to Iron Age I. In this study, aimed at investigating the texture, components, and classification of the pottery, 37 pieces of ceramic artifacts discovered during the 2015 excavations were analyzed. Thin-section petrographic analysis, focusing on identifying microscopic structures and existing minerals, was used for this purpose. The results revealed three distinct textures in the pottery samples: coarse-grained heterogeneous or porphyritic texture, fine-grained or silty texture, and clastic texture. The clay matrix of these ceramics shows minimal sorting of its components and contains grog and coarse fillers. Various igneous rock fragments, grog (remnants of silt, clay, or crushed ceramics), calcite, and quartz are visible in the samples. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the materials used in the production of these ceramics were generally local and sourced from the surrounding region.

Mohammad Yaghizaei, Atefeh Fazel Najafabadi,
Volume 5, Issue 3 (12-2022)
Abstract

Ceramics and the ceramics industry have undergone numerous changes since the emergence of tool-making humans on Earth. These changes have led to the development of various types of ceramics, differing in shape, design, nomenclature, size, preparation and Making methods. These are primarily found in archaeological excavations, and their conservation and restoration can be more accurately performed by understanding and identifying their types and varieties. Ceramics are classified into different types based on their manufacturing technique, firing temperature, the clay used, and the additives used in the clay body. These classifications can sometimes be quite scattered. For instance, based on firing temperature, they can be divided into four categories: stoneware, earthenware, bone China, and porcelain. Based on manufacturing methods, they can be classified into hand-built, slab-built, wheel-thrown, molded, and pressed. The aim of this research is to introduce the most important types of ceramics and their characteristics, including firing temperature, manufacturing technique, and other structural properties and materials used in the body. To achieve this goal, this study will explain some of the terminology used in ceramics and classify ceramics based on firing temperature, manufacturing method, and the type of clay that constitutes their clay body.

Mehdi Razani, Arina Rashid Zadeh, Ramin Mohammadi Sefidkhani,
Volume 5, Issue 3 (12-2022)
Abstract

The Reconstruction of damaged cultural-historical artifacts is essential for facilitating communication with the audience and, in some cases, in their conservation. The methods used for reconstructing pottery artifacts vary based on their destructive characteristics, missing parts, and the requirements of the cultural-social context. These methods have been carried out using different materials and techniques throughout different periods. Naturally, as science advances in the field of conservation and restoration, these methods and materials continue to evolve. This article not only introduces some restoration methods for pottery objects but also delves into the restoration of delicate pieces using the papier-mâché technique. Reconstructing delicate objects presents challenges concerning stability and balance due to the added weight the use of numerous filling materials during the reconstruction of missing parts can create problems in maintaining the balance and stability of the artifact. Therefore, in order to assess the papier-mâché method in restoring delicate and lightweight pottery artifacts, a fine and lightweight vessel acquired from the archaeological excavations at the Silveh tepe, situated in West Azarbaijan province, was restored. The main objective of this article is to introduce and implement a fresh approach for reconstructing fragile pottery objects with papier-mâché, which is deemed a thoughtful method due to its lightness, strength, ease of modification, and ability to preserve the balance and stability of the artifacts.

Shiva Razavi,
Volume 5, Issue 3 (12-2022)
Abstract

Pottery is one of the artistic-technical craft that has persisted for several millennia from prehistoric times to the present day. Such artifacts, particularly in Iran, exhibit high stylistic and technological diversity. In most archaeological excavations, consistently various types of these artifacts from different historical periods and styles have been discovered, whose technical study and form recovery can provide valuable information to researchers in various fields. Among these excavations is the Tappeh-Silveh in Piranshahr, where diverse pottery dating back to the Chalcolithic, Early Bronze Age, Iron Age, as well as remnants from the Parthian period and the subsequent Islamic period have been uncovered. The specimen studied in this article is a decorated orange pottery piece with black and red colors and geometric patterns, belonging to the Bronze Age from this site. This piece has sustained damages such as fractures, losses, and deposits, , which have been improperly repaired. It requires cleaning, reattachment, and reconstruction of the missing parts, while adhering to the theoretical principles of conservation. Accordingly, after necessary pathological and technical studies of the artifact using laboratory methods, an appropriate cleaning method was selected, and essential actions were taken towards its protection and restoration.

Mehdi Alavi,
Volume 5, Issue 3 (12-2022)
Abstract

In the past, the art of designing and painting tiles was passed from master to apprentice, and each time the creativity of different artists gave a different effect to these works. Therefore, the methods of drawing these motifs have never been written down. As we know, most of the motifs used in the decoration of historical tiles have a geometric origin, and their analysis or drawing requires knowledge of projection. Therefore, in this note, an attempt has been made to propose the hypothesis of the matching of symmetrical elements in the patterns of historical tiles with the symmetrical elements of material crystals, while examining the geometric structure of different motifs, rules based on symmetry data are presented for drawing these motifs. It is believed that with the help of this method, the rearrangement of traditional motifs in the tile production industry, as well as their recovery for the restoration of damaged parts using formula writing and marking, will become easier.

Mehdi Razani, Parisa Zahedi, Omid Omidian,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract

Tombstones are composed of various stones adorned with different patterns and decorations, and their role in Islam and Iranian culture is considered integral cultural artefacts, with respect to the concept of life after death and their educative function to living people in reminding the concept of death and the eternal abode. In past societies, stones were perceived as the abodes of souls. This research employs a descriptive-analytical approach and library research method by exploring the various types of tombstones and diverse decorations associated with them in different Islamic periods, as well as the methods of conservation and restoration of tombstones. The paper also investigates the Islamic perspective on this matter. Restoration of Islamic tombs and tombstones is seen as a scholarly and practical endeavor, as evidenced by Islamic sources emphasizing the conservation of the tombs of divine figures, including the Imams, as a clear example of venerating religious symbols, a commendable practice and an emphasized aspect of Islam. Additionally, the restoration of the tombs of ordinary deceased individuals is justified due to its prominent role in reminding survivors of the concept of death and readiness for the journey to the eternal abode.

Maryam Shirvani, Sara Zareiyan Jahromi,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract

The heritage remaining from the short era of Zandiyeh in Shiraz are very diverse and decorated with various decorations. The use of stone can be seen in different parts of these buildings, such that it is used in the external and internal plinths of the building, columns, paving yard and ponds. The plinth walls are sometimes decorated with paintings and sometimes with sculptures, and one of the unique plinths is the battle of Rostam and Ashkboos in the courtyard of Divan Khaneh complex. The purpose of this paper is the scientific pathology of the changes and destructions created in the carvings of Divan Khaneh building. The main question raised is how short-range photogrammetry technology can help accurately document damage to historical relief monuments. The research method is applied and experimental. which has been evaluated using survey and field research. The obtained results state that the use of photogrammetric method is a safe method that is very effective in damage imaging and can show the amount of changes made in the main structure of the stone. In this method, the amount of decay and various destructions of the sculptural effect was evaluated and analyzed, which includes separation, cracks and fissures, material loss, erosion, discoloration, and sedimentation.

Maryam Rahsaz, Mohsen Ghaseminezhad Rayeni,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract

The present research report describes the rescue operation conservation and restoration of the relief on block No. 4 of the eastern part of the Northwest Gate of the Sad Sotūn (Hundred Pillars) Palace of Persepolis complex that consists of east and west parts. During the years 1980 and 1981, only on western part of this structure, some restoration, anastylosis, reconstruction and consolidation measures were carried out by the conservation specialist office of Persepolis under the supervision of Master Hassan Rahsaz by some traditional masters. Therefore, no actions had been taken regarding the eastern part until 2017. following the monitoring and analysis of the destruction process on the motifs on this part of the gate, conservation and restoration experts decided to run a conservation and restoration workshop and carry-out rescue operations for these motifs. Undertook to act on the basis of modern methods based on new materials and trained by Iranian and Italian expert’s restoration methods. This report will specifically address one of the blocks. The authors hope to describe, analyze, and present a portion of the efforts undertaken to expand modern conservation initiatives at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Persepolis.

Hamidreza Irani, Gholamreza Yazdani,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract

The “Bismillah stone” inscription is one of the significant works of the Qajar era in the Azarbaijan Museum of Tabriz since 1993. This work was crafted in Cairo, Egypt by an Iranian artist named Mohammad Ali Quchani known as Mirza Sangalakh. The artifact comprises five segments, collectively weighing approximately more than three tons. Most of damages caused in this work, considering its delicate decorations and substantial weight, has been attributed to its multiple relocations. In addition to very delicate carvings, the surface of the work is decorated with blue, gold, green, black, white and red colors. It seems that in addition to the ups and downs history of this work and its cultural significance within contemporary society, particularly among the people of Tabriz, only a review of its history will not be enough to express its status, value and unique characteristics. Therefore, a more detailed and scientific study could significantly enhance the understanding and appreciation of this work. Furthermore, for improved preservation and potential restoration of the work, documentation and scientific studies are needed for this magnificent work. To identify the materials and origins of existing colors, the application of scientific and laboratory methods was put on the agenda. To achieve this, two methods of classical chemistry testing and EDX analysis were employed to identify the present colors. the results confirmed the presence of indigo, copper rust (cuprous oxide), gold powder, Shangraf (cinnabar), bone soot and sheikh white (white lead) in the coloration of the artifact.

Seyed Iraj Beheshti, Nahid Vahabi Kashani ,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract

The Niavaran Cultural-Historical Complex is situated within a vast garden of approximately 11 hectares garden in northern Tehran, characterized by its rich natural beauty and historical significance. The buildings in this complex date back to the Qajar and Pahlavi eras, including the Sahebqaranieh Palace, the Ahmad Shahi Pavilion, Niavaran Palace, a private library, and the Jahan Nama Museum. Among these, the Ahmad Shahi Pavilion, one of the Qajar palaces in the complex, lacks any dated inscriptions or historical markers.; however, evidence suggests that this building was constructed during the reign of Ahmad Shah Qajar. This two-story building houses personal belongings of Reza Pahlavi. On the ground floor, in the western section of the building, there are two rooms separated by glass display cases. Four large glass display cases segregate these two rooms, containing 106 pieces of rough and cut precious and semi-precious stones, along with several fossils. The primary objective of this article is to study and identify the stone and fossil specimens present in these display cases. The studied stones are primarily quartz in various colors, alongside mineral specimens such as pyrite, chalcopyrite, stibnite, sulfur, and precious stones like beryl, as well as various types of fish fossils, ammonites, trilobites, and contemporary fossils such as corals and fish. Three notable specimens in these display cases include a natural diamond associated with a kimberlite host rock, likely originating from South African mines; a tektite meteorite sample brought from the moon,  which was gifted by then-President t Nixon; and several beautiful rough turquoise mineral samples with a host rock originating from the Nishapur turquoise mine. A significant drawback of this collection is the lack of historical information regarding how these collectible specimens were gathered, purchased, or gifted, and by whom.

Parisa Zahedi,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract

The use of tombstones to mark the burial place of the dead is an ancient tradition. Over time, its types, shapes, and sizes depending on the traditions, culture, and religion, as well as the impact that the deceased had on his family and society during his lifetime has been changed. Tombstones also play an important role in preserving history, as they often have inscriptions that provide insight into the people buried beneath them and the cultural practices of that historical period. The tombstones of the Islamic period play an important role in recognizing Islamic culture in the past ages. Ohadi Maragheh is a poet of the late 7th and early 8th century AH, and his tomb is in a cemetery in Maragheh and his tombstone is a sandstone box with decorations and inscriptions. In this article, using field, library, and laboratory studies, the typology, characterization and preservation-digital reconstruction of the tombstone of Ohadi Maraghei have been studied. Using this method before carrying out physical conservation and restoration activities can be helpful in showing what will happen. The restorer can give researchers a general picture of the restored work by performing digital reconstructions.

Mostafa Rakhshandehkhoo, Hamid Fadaei, Masoud Ansari, Leila Razavi,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract

The Sassanian bas-reliefs are among the most significant historical artifacts of ancient Iran, primarily found in the province of Fars. Approximately 30 Sassanian bas-reliefs exist in Fars, depicting scenes related to power demonstrations, court proceedings, and battles or hunting scenes. Unfortunately, many of these bas-reliefs have suffered damage over the years due to their outdoor exposure and the impact of climatic conditions. Depending on the type of stone and their geographical location, they have been gradually eroded. Given their historical importance for Iran's cultural heritage, a comprehensive program involving study, documentation, conservation planning, and restoration is crucial. The Naqsh-e Rostam Relief Complex houses more than 11 bas-reliefs and numerous inscriptions, all situated in open-air environments and vulnerable to environmental factors such as rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations. These elements have contributed to the gradual deterioration of these ancient artworks. The central question addressed by this article pertains to the process of studying, assessing damage, documenting, and planning the conservation of a rock relief. To answer this, a combination of field and laboratory methods has been employed, including petrography, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). The results indicate both physical and chemical weathering in the limestone structure, leading to various forms of damage such as erosion, flaking, cracking, and breakage. Therefore, protective and conservation measures for these prominent bas-reliefs should focus on strengthening and preserving their surfaces against deteriorating agents.

Mahsa Saidi Mehrabad, Ali Nemati-Babaylou, Hakime Afsharinezhad,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract

Alki Caravanserai – Near Marand is considered one of the most important buildings on the way in north-west regen- Iran due to its special position in archaeological studies. It was located on the side of the ancient Silk Road and was built by the order of Khawja Rashid al-Din Fazl-Allah (Fazllullah) Hamadani. The ornaments used in the Entrance gate of this building are a combination of tiles and bricks, which have special and important place in the north of the country not only from the archeological point but also because of their position in the evolution process of making tile arrays. This shows the importance of recognition, conservation, and restoration of Alaki caravanserai. Due to the full destruction of this caravanserai building over time, some ornaments and part of the architectural plan of this caravanserai have been discovered during archaeological excavations. In Current research, the process of recognizing and classifying these ornaments has been done based on historical and decorations remain studies that lead to the protection, restoration, and revival of the caravanserai building regarding the health of the plan and the foundations of its structures. First, the separated and broken decorations were classified according to historical studies and their location was identified in the old pictures of the caravanserai. This matter was done in the feasibility of revitalizing entrance gate Then, according to the available images and parts, the geometric nodes related to the two types of designs are drawn, then according to the available parts, it is possible to check the geometric frame of a tile and brick combination frame as an example of the works of this renovation.

Mehdi Razani, Zahre Shojai Maleki,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract

the issue of forgery is of great importance in studying the authenticity of artistic and historical objects in the field of cultural artifacts. Ceramic, has been one of the most important human achievements that has subjected to various forms of forgery throughout history. Determining the authenticity of ceramic works requires understanding the multi-faceted nature of the material composition, construction methods, and decoration of the objects, as well as recognizing different types of forgery. Evaluating forgery in ceramic objects requires an assessment of the artistic-historical and aesthetic aspects of the crafted object, the authenticity of the manufacturing technology and production component, and the authenticity of subsequent interventions and additions. Therefore, determining authenticity in the face of forgery requires a specialized perspective and approach towards suspicious objects. This article aims to explore the various types of forgery in ceramics and examine the typology and methods of forgery in historical and cultural ceramics of Iran. The results, regardless of the historical context of forgery, indicate the development of forgery in ceramic objects during recent centuries and its presence in the antique market and the conservation of historical artifacts.

Fezeh Rahimi, Alireza Razaghi,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract

Identity is one of the concepts with a broad range of meaning within the humanities. Its importance lies in the fact that it is impossible to find an individual, person, or object that has no identity. For this reason, it has been a subject of study across most of the different branches of humanities. It is also important in the field of cultural heritage, which is directly linked to the cultural identity of communities, and for this reason many documents have been prepared in this regard. Due to the importance of the issue, this article conducts a content analysis of international documents related to cultural heritage. For this purpose, the concept of identity was selected from several international documents related to cultural heritage. Based on the content analysis, the concept of identity in these documents can be examined under two main categories: the definition of identity and the domains of identity. Each of these categories has subcategories, that are classified in this article under the title of category and subcategory. However, how each of these categories and subcategories is prioritized within these documents, along with recommendations for improving the handling of the issue of identity in future documents, is addressed in this article. The importance of using the hierarchical analysis of subcategories in these documents is that, in addition to being effective in decision-making, it will also be helpful in compiling newer documents about identity. After identifying the categories and subcategories related to the concept of identity, they were prioritized. This means that after analyzing the content of the documents, their rank analysis was conducted, to determine the ranking of each category.

Shaiba Khadir,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract

Identifying the material and the main substrate of a cultural artifact, as well as the surface sediments in the process of conservation and restoration plays a significant role in determining the appropriate methods and ensuring the longevity of the artifact. To achieve this, the use of laboratory-based, instrumental, and microscopic techniques is indispensable. While some experts might be able to recognize the nature of the coin at a glance, this is not always possible, especially when it covered with substantial deposits or when its authenticity is in question.  Therefore, in addition to experimental knowledge and comparative studies, precise laboratory methods are necessary. In the research has been carried out in the workshop of conservation and restoration of metal works of the Research Center for Conservation of Cultural Relies, we encountered instances familiar to many dealing with coin collections. For example, coins with a silver appearance that have become darkened and tarnished due to deposits caused by the surrounding environment and wear and tear, might initially seem to be silver.  However, further investigation often reveals that they are of different alloy or have a Silver coating, or they have been silver-copper coins buried in soil, where deposits and extensive copper corrosion products sometimes make the identification more challenging. Various methods are employed in the study of coins to clarify the economic, social, and political conditions at the time of their minting. Techniques such as PIXE (Particle-Induced X-ray Emission) and XRF (X-ray fluorescence) have attracted more attention from researchers for reasons such as accuracy and non-destructiveness nature. However, it should be considered that in order to obtain a clear and accurate results, the surface of the coin needs to be clean and free of any kind of contamination before conducting these analyses. This underscores the importance of adhering to proper restoration processes for these historical artifacts. Before commencing cleaning, the conservator must consider factors such as the identification of the coin, its surrounding environment or burial and storage conditions, structural aspects, precision in coin minting, and its pathology. Assessment of these factors, not only helps numismatic studies and determining the authenticity of coin, but also assists in selecting the optimal method of cleaning. It should be kept in mind that the inappropriate selection of chemicals or the use of unsuitable mechanical tools can cause serious damage to the artifact's surface and disturb subsequent studies. this research introduces various methods used in the field of study of coins, both hammered and machine-struck, tend highlights the role and importance of laboratory studies in this context.

Tahereh Shihebori, Elahe Khakbaz Alvandiyan,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract

Historical monuments have always had a special place in historical-cultural studies as one of the indicators of identifying the cultural heritage of nations. The following paper aims to present a report on the restoration andconservation of metal objects of the cultural heritage treasure of Yazd city. Protection of this treasure which is one of the richest collections in terms of the variety of historical works, which put the restoration and conservation of the present objects on the agenda in the past years, and restoration and conservation operations were carried out on these valuable works. For this purpose, an effort was performed in this research during 7 years at different times to select metal objects with special features from this rich collection, and its report is presented in this article. Various types of objects such as silver, iron, and bronze objects were restored and protected. Improper maintenance conditions in the past have caused these works to be covered by environmental sediments or corrosion products, which sediments and corrosion products cause the illegibility of designs and patterns and sometimes the complete destruction of objects. So, in the operation procedure of restoration and conservation observing theoretical principles, cleaning operation was done as far as possible mechanically and chemically if needed. Low percentages of consumable materials were used and materials were selected that do not harm the environment as much as possible. The most important step after the restoration operation is the conservation of objects in desirable conditions and periodic reviews, so that if any damage is observed, it should be repaired immediately. The following paper describes the steps of restoration and conservation of metal objects of different types and protects them to keep them in standard conditions to be shown in the museum.
 
Mohammad Yaghizaei,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract

Pottery is one of the most important man-made artifacts, and with time, its manufacturing and application technology has also changed. Therefore, in most archaeological excavations, pottery artifacts occupy a major part of the discoveries, and most of these artifacts have special damages. Some of these damages are common, such as fractures and cracks, and some are special due to the burial conditions and low quality in the construction technique; Such as body layering damage that requires special protection and restoration studies. In this study, a sample of terracotta cauldron hanging on the Segzabad hill of Qazvin Plain belonging to the Iron Age period was studied. This study aimed to understand the construction technique, investigate the damages on the pottery body and the cause of these damages. To answer these questions, instrumental tests, such as XRF, and comparative historical studies have been used. All these studies will ultimately help in the way of conservation and restoration that should be done. After all the protective steps to prevent secondary damage that may occur after its restoration, a box is designed to store the pottery and, in some cases, even display it. The result obtained from all the steps was the recognition of the construction technique and the documentation of the damage in the body, which ultimately led to the protection and restoration of this historical and cultural work.

Negar Raeisnia, Mohammad Haddadi,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract

Environmental factors have a key role in increasing the durability of documented and written heritage. Therefore, in order to create favorable environmental conditions in archives and libraries, it is necessary to determine the goals related to environmental management to meet the preservation needs of these collections; and protective measures (to prevent or slow down the process of deterioration of materials) in these institutions should be planned and implemented. The most important environmental factors affecting the durability of library and archive collections include temperature, relative humidity, light, airborne particles, chemical gases, and biological factors. Control and regulation of these factors is the most cost-effective way to increase the useful life of collections. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the environmental conditions continuously, by recording and processing the data. In this study, the requirements, optimal scope, and preventive protection measures contained in some standards and guidelines for the protection and  maintenance of archival and library materials have been investigated. The aim is ensuring the safe preservation of materials and objects sensitive to deterioration. It seems that physical, chemical, and biological mechanisms depend on temperature and humidity which affect the collections in different ways. So, it is impossible to find a safe temperature and humidity range for all collections. Establishing international standards should be recognized as
a long-term strategy that helps to raise the quality of protection processes and improve resource protection knowledge. Based on the studies and experiences gained, the permissible limits can be determined which depend on the material's physical condition, its proper durability over time, and the environmental conditions of storage during the historical period.

Mehdi Razani, Ali Mirzaei, Ramin Mohammadi Sefidkhani,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract

This article examines and identifies the tombstone of the late Seyyed Rouhollah Kashfi Darabi and discusses how to carry out its restoration, reconstruction, and display. The necessity and importance of this research is the attention to the conservation and restoration of outdoor stone artefacts in the museum that are exposed to environmental factors in open areas. This has been accomplished through laboratory studies identifying stones using petrographic methods and examining similar past experiences in the region through field and library research. After documenting, analyzing, and evaluating the intervention and reconstruction methods, the incomplete interventions of previous restorations were cleaned up and rectified. In continuation, the reconstruction of the tombstone was carried out using silicone molds and polyester resin. The restoration intervention was done by examining and comparing various reconstruction methods for such works and the less-considered idea was innovatively implemented by reconstructing the missing parts with polyester resin (simulating marble stone) while considering technical and aesthetic principles. Finally, conservation and restoration measures were carried out using 4% Paraloid B-72 as a coating-stabilizer and it was entrusted to the technical office of Tabriz Islamic Art University with arrangements for display and conceptual space. Despite the positive aspects of the reconstruction measures in terms of technical and aesthetic principles, due to the location of the artifact in the outdoor environment and exposed to destructive environmental factors, follow-up researches are needed to investigate the behaviour of stone and restoration materials.


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