Showing 26 results for Razani
Mostafa Karimi Fard, Mehdi Razani,
Volume 1, Issue 1 (Special Issue 1.1 2018)
Abstract
Stucco work (gachbori) is one of the most prominent and sophisticated traditional arts of Iran, which has historically been executed using a variety of technical methods. Due to the inherent fragility of gypsum and the impact of both environmental and human factors that contribute to the deterioration of historic plasterworks, the conservation and restoration of these elements—particularly through the revival of forgotten or seldom-used techniques—are essential for preserving and transmitting cultural heritage to future generations.
One such technique is the creation of openwork stucco decorations, which are freestanding ornaments executed in a pierced style without a backing layer. This method is especially prevalent in the central regions of Iran, notably in the historic houses of Kashan, where lattice windows (rozans) filled with colored glass are a distinguishing feature. From a technical standpoint, the decorative work is carried out by applying gypsum over a temporary support; once the support is removed, the cut-out patterns are completed from the rear with stained glass.
This article presents a detailed account of the reconstruction and restoration process of one such gypsum lattice window in the Abbasi House of Kashan. Through a practical and field-based approach, the authors replicate and document the historical construction techniques and restoration steps involved in reviving this architectural ornament, offering insights into the craftsmanship and methodology behind these delicate works.
Mehdi Razani,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (Spesial Issue 1.2 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The Behistun Inscription, one of the most significant historical documents in the world, was commissioned by Darius the Great of the Achaemenid Empire in the 6th century BCE.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.
Mehdi Razani,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (Special Issue 1.1 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
Mahdi Razani, Alireza Baghbanan , Seyed Mohammad Amin Emami,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (Spesial Issue 1.2 2018)
Abstract
This study aims to utilize qualitative assessments derived from environmental evaluations and field tests to document the current state of damage, determine strength, and measure hardness in the external surfaces of the rock-cut architecture of the historic village of Kandovan, identifying and ranking the most significant damage factors. Environmental assessment forms were used for documenting the pathology, while a Schmidt hammer (Type L) was employed for qualitative field tests. The entire village was surveyed at 143 points. The results indicate that human activities are the primary cause of deterioration in Kandovan, with the hardness of the rock-cut surfaces classified as weak to very weak. The severe erosion of the outer surfaces of the rock houses is notable. Based on the data, the village was zoned into areas of low, moderate, and severe weathering in terms of surface strength, reflecting the extent of deterioration. Areas with greater exposure to water flows exhibit severe erosion and weathering, while those with less exposure to watercourses are classified as less weathered.
Mehdi Razani,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (Spesial Issue 1.2 2018)
Abstract
The conservation of mural paintings on plaster substrates uncovered during archaeological excavations, particularly those executed in watercolor, tempera, or oil-based techniques, necessitates a comprehensive understanding of plaster’s properties and its interaction with environmental factors. Plaster, as calcium sulfate dehydrate (CaSO₄·2H₂O), is a crystalline and porous material that poses unique challenges in restoration due to its high sensitivity to moisture, temperature, and biological agents. These characteristics, combined with the diversity of pigment layers and organic or oil-based binders, demand multifaceted conservation approaches. This note seeks to problematize the issue in a general sense while highlighting some common challenges and solutions.
Fereshteh Abbasi, Mehdi Razani,
Volume 2, Issue 2 (Special Issue 1.1 2019)
Abstract
This study examines fossils as part of the country’s natural heritage. These unique and irreplaceable artifacts hold historical, aesthetic, and scientific value. The objective of this research was to investigate the structure and composition of fossils, assess their existing damages, and propose appropriate methods for their conservation and maintenance. The studied samples were obtained from the Maragheh Fossil Research Center, specifically from the 13 Aban site of the Maragheh Formation. The initial phase involved extracting the samples from their encasing blocks and identifying the resulting traces. Following sampling, chemical tests were conducted to identify soluble salts, physical tests including densitometry, moisture content determination, and porosity measurement, as well as structural analyses such as XRF were performed. The soluble salt analysis examined chloride, phosphate, sulfate, and nitrate ions, with results indicating the presence of only phosphate ions in the samples. A precise understanding of the structure, characteristics, and origin of salts is highly beneficial in selecting appropriate conservation and treatment methods. Additionally, the results of physical tests can guide the selection of the type and concentration of consolidate. The XRF analysis was conducted to determine the elemental composition of the samples and their interaction with the surrounding soil. The damages observed in the fossils are primarily physical and mechanical, resulting from environmental conditions, improper transportation, and incorrect restoration practices. Damages such as cracks, microcracks, fractures, cavities, and loss of matrix material may occur before or after excavation. Furthermore, pyrite decay, efflorescence, delamination, light-induced damage, and biological degradation are additional factors affecting fossils and minerals.
Mehdi Razani,
Volume 2, Issue 4 (ویژه نامه 2020)
Abstract
The Journal of Knowledge of Conservation and Restoration, as a specialized publication in the field of cultural heritage, experienced significant interruptions in its publication schedule between 2017 and 2020 due to structural and operational challenges. In 2017, 2019, and 2020, only one issue was published each year, while in 2018 no issue was released at all. These interruptions resulted in delays in the dissemination of submitted articles. To address these shortcomings, the decision was made in August 2024 to publish compensatory special issues. These special issues were prepared and released with the collaboration of invited guest editors and included a selection of outstanding papers presented at the 10th and 12th Conferences on Conservation and Restoration, along with newly submitted articles. Consequently, from August 2024 to September 2025, the backlog of delayed issues was resolved with the publication of a total of 31 issues, comprising 10 special issues and 21 regular issues. This initiative was undertaken to restore the trust of the scholarly community, disseminate postponed articles, and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in conservation and restoration.
Mehdi Razani,
Volume 3, Issue 2 (9-2020)
Abstract
The Knowledge of Conservation and Restoration Journal, as one of the specialized journals in the field of conservation and restoration of historical and cultural heritage, began its activities in the spring of 2017. With the aim of publishing the latest scientific findings, research, and experiences related to the conservation and restoration of cultural heritage, the journal has gained a distinguished position among researchers, conservators, and enthusiasts in this field after publishing more than 22 issues. However, after the release of its first issue in the spring of 2017, the journal faced interruptions in
its publication schedule; the second issue was published in the spring of 2018, and the third issue in the spring of 2019. These prolonged interruptions caused the journal to deviate from its regular publication cycle and completely halt its activities for four years. This four-year hiatus resulted in a backlog of 16 issues, until the journal resumed its activities in the summer of 2023 with fundamental changes in its structure and approach. These changes not only led to the revival
of the journal but also placed it in a stable and progressive state. In this note, we will examine the revival process, the actions taken, and express our gratitude to the esteemed colleagues who accomplished this significant task within eight months. After eight months of operation, the journal successfully entered the evaluation process of scientific journals by the Iranian Ministry of Science & technology ubsequently, in February of 2025 it was awarded and recognized with a **Grade B** ranking.
Mehdi Razani, Mitra Taghizadeh ,
Volume 3, Issue 3 (12-2020)
Abstract
Historical canvas paintings are subject to many destructions due to their age. Among these damages, environmental pollution such as moisture, light, atmospheric pollution, biological pollution and vandalism can be mentioned. The settling of SO2 and SO3 gases in the air next to the humidity on the paintings causes acidification of the canvas, which in addition to weakening the support of the painting, weakens the connections of the paint to the underlying layer and ultimately results in the deterioration of the work. Therefore, deacidification of painting canvas will be a serious and very effective measure to prevent the destruction of the work. The traditional methods of deacidification, which have been used until today, unfortunately left adverse effects on the work, such as dandruff and weighting of the painting fabric. With the advancement of technology and nanotechnology, new methods have been presented for deacidification of historical works, including cloth, wood and paper. The use of calcium hydroxide nanoparticles makes it possible to spray materials in restoration operations. Due to the small size of nanoparticles and the lack of concentration of solutes on the surface of the effect and the high penetration depth due to the ability of nanoparticles to be absorbed by cotton fibers, it causes the high efficiency of nanoparticles compared to coarse particles. In this article, firstly, the use of calcium hydroxide nanoparticles in deacidification of canvas painting canvas is investigated, then the methods and method of calcium hydroxide nanoparticle production, its stability and lifespan are discussed.
Mehdi Razani, Leyli Nemani Khiyavi ,
Volume 3, Issue 4 (3-2021)
Abstract
Historical structures, often constructed using porous materials such as stone, brick, and mortar, have been exposed to environmental and anthropogenic stressors over centuries, leading to their gradual deterioration. Consolidation, a critical intervention in the conservation of porous historical materials, aims to enhance their mechanical stability, mitigate further degradation, and prolong their lifespan. This process becomes essential when the structural integrity of an artifact is compromised due to factors such as weathering, salt crystallization, and biological growth. However, the effectiveness of consolidation treatments is highly dependent on the selection of appropriate consolidants, which must meet specific criteria, including deep and uniform penetration, minimal surface residue, chemical compatibility, reversibility, and the preservation of the material’s breathability. Despite its importance, the field faces significant challenges, including a lack of standardized protocols and comprehensive understanding of the long-term performance of consolidants. This research seeks to bridge the gap between theoretical principles and practical applications by evaluating the performance of various consolidants on-site and optimizing intervention strategies for porous historical materials. The findings aim to contribute to the development of more effective and sustainable conservation practices for cultural heritage.
Mehdi Razani , Jalil Esmailnezhad Teymurabadi ,
Volume 4, Issue 3 (12-2021)
Abstract
Today, the use of new technologies and methods of preserving ivory objects has led to a better understanding and safe protection of objects. The purpose of this article is the feasibility of using new methods of rapid prototyping technologies, including 3D modeling and 3D stereolithography (SLA) printers, in order to achieve a suitable method for reconstructing missing parts and it is important to make a moulage of historical and cultural objects using existing equipment in order to use it in the restoration and reconstruction of sensitive objects. In line with the review of the introduced technology, an example of a chess piece made of elephant ivory was selected, with the statue of a man riding a camel carved in great detail. The selected object was missing a lot. Documentation was done from the same bead and according to the available images, 3D modeling was done with Zibrush software, which is a special software for sculpting. Settings related to print management were made in Chitubox software and 3D reconstruction to make a moulage from a stereolithography printer. The results of this research showed that the use of 3D modeling and printing with a stereolithography (SLA) 3D printer as a new method can be used in the direction of making moulage and reconstructing missing parts of sensitive objects; And they can also be useful to a great extent in the low-risk behavior of protection towards sensitive objects such as ivory. Because of advantages such as: methodical execution of most steps and minimal intervention and contact with the object, increasing precision and elegance in the execution of decorations, preventing common and unwanted mistakes of the restorer, duplicating all the object as many times as desired, sending the 3D model software file made to other research centers, they have the possibility of temporarily connecting the piece made to the main body of the object, which covers the principle of reversibility in conservation.
The main advantages of using these methods are:
• Reducing contact with sensitive objects and avoiding conventional and time-consuming, commonly used contact and to some extent destructive, such as: molding, casting and filtration processes in the rebuilding of archaeological works
• More precision in the implementation of outstanding and complex designs than the traditional method,
• Achieving similar levels of quality to historical cultural effects using a combination of modeling techniques.
• Construction of parts in different dimensions with asymmetric geometric models, so that there is little constraint on the form and geometric shape for construction.
• Ability to evaluate and modify the 3D layout and repeat it in case of dissatisfaction with each section in the shortest possible time.
• The risk of connection to the reconstructed piece is due to the neutral properties
• Reducing the time in making missing parts
Somayeh Samadian, Mehdi Razani,
Volume 4, Issue 3 (12-2021)
Abstract
Carpet, as a piled and knotted hand-woven with a structure consisting of organic materials, is always exposed to damages during the various time processes of weaving, consumption, and storage. These can generally be divided into two categories of internal damages (how primary actions for preparing and dying fibers and also knitting are done) and external ones (defects during use and maintenance). Considering that the scope of the attitude is more on the samples in the museum and private collections, which apart from the aspect of consumption need favorable conditions for long-term protection, in this research, we tried to describe the four harmful factors and their sub-categories, which includes physical factors (light, atmospheric pollution and two factors of temperature and humidity), chemical factors (effect of acids, alkalis, oxidants), macroscopic biological agents (insects and rodents) and microscopic ones (fungi, molds and bacteria), to create a wider insight into the process of keeping these exquisite objects and prevent them from entering the structure.
Sana Kazemzad Bagha, Mahdi Razani,
Volume 5, Issue 1 (3-2022)
Abstract
The following article aims to conserve and restore a part of the rock door and stone tower of the Pasargad World Heritage Site. The rock piece belongs to the right wing of the stone tower and is decorated with six lotus flowers. This object had much damage that caused the preservation and protection of the work to problems such as fracture and lack of integrity. Therefore, the restoration practice started on the stone piece. The best intervention method is selected after the historical, physical, and chemical knowledge of the effect. In this regard, studies have been conducted in the field of knowing and investigating the political history, architecture, nature, and use of the rock tower, and instrumental analyses such as petrography, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF) have been performed to identify the physical and chemical dimension of the object. The results show that the work belonged to the stone tower and was probably built during the reign of Darius. The rock used to build the artefact is dolomitic limestone. Finally, with the help of the mentioned analyses and according to the restoration principles of restoration, practical procedure, and preventive conservation were carried out on the stone piece. Finally, the work was placed inside a frame made of Teflon sheet for display so that the work has both visual integrity and can be reversed for future restorations.
Mohammad Yaghizayi, Mehdi Razani, Atefeh Fazel Najafabadi,
Volume 5, Issue 2 (9-2022)
Abstract
The pathology of pottery works is considered one of the most fundamental pillars of conservation and restoration, as understanding the damage will pave the way for its preservation and restoration. Pottery works are generally more stable than many other materials found in archaeological excavations. However, when these works are buried in inappropriate conditions and unfavorable factors, they can suffer from significant damage. Without proper care in their protection, the result may be complete deterioration of the pottery. Damage to ceramic bodies occurs in two forms: Physical and chemical, along with mechanical factors, can accelerate these processes. In the pathology of clay bodies, it is essential to identify the origins and causes of these damages to implement the effective treatments aimed to enhance the longevity of the ceramics., In the pathology of clay bodies, we can refer to cracks, fractures, crystallization of various salts, damages from firing processes, biological damages, stains, delamination, and more. This research, will provide an overview of the most prevalent damages of clay bodies and the factors that cause them, and the relationship between the formation of one type of damage and its influence on the emergence of other damages. Recognizing these connections can inform more effective methods for the protection and restoration of pottery artifacts.
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.
Mehdi Razani, Parisa Zahedi, Omid Omidian,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (Knowledge of Conservation and Restoration 2023)
Abstract
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.
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.
Saeid Mehriar, Abdolalizade Abdolalizade, Zahra Talischianazar, Mehdi Razani,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract
The preservation and restoration of historical monuments are among the most crucial objectives worldwide, aiming to pass cultural heritage on to future generations. These efforts encompass a wide range of activities carried out by specialists while adhering to various aspects, including the theoretical principles of historical restoration. The Sadiq Al Saltaneh Mansion, located in the Maqsoudiyeh neighborhood of Tabriz, is one of the notable buildings from the Qajar period. In addition to its unique architectural layout, the mansion features stucco decorations on the columns and fireplaces. During the restoration process, evidence from various historical periods was uncovered, highlighting the alterations the building has undergone over time. A significant challenge arose when a historical fireplace in the northwest room of the mansion,s first floor was discovered, along with a stuccoed wall dating back to the late Safavid and early Zand periods hidden behind it. This presented a dilemma regarding how to display both significant historical features. After thorough examination of the site and assessment of the artifacts, it was decided to relocate the fireplace within its original space. The goal was to enhance the understanding of the building and to better showcase both valuable historical elements. Given the historical significance and aesthetic value of both features, the relocation of the fireplace and the subsequent exposure of the historical wall behind it were deemed necessary. The technical process of relocation involved framing and supporting the fireplace, followed by carefully detaching it from the wall according to a pre-designed method. After securing the artifact with an iron frame and clearing the surrounding area, the connection to the wall was severed step by step, with reinforcement measures implemented throughout the procedure. The fireplace was then moved to its new location using a crane and installed in such a way that both features could be fully observed. It should be noted that all actions were planned and carried out based on technical and theoretical principles of historical
monument restoration.
Mehdi Razani, Leyli Nemani Khiyavi ,
Volume 6, Issue 4 (3-2024)
Abstract
This research investigates methods for conservation, restoration, and reinforcement of the Urartian inscription of Seqindel. It also aims to propose feasible recommendations for improving the preservation and stabilization conditions of the inscription and consequently, the historical site itself. The Seqindel inscription was discovered in 1951 CE near the village of Seqindel, beside a complex archaeological site. It stands as a significant artefact from the Urartian era in northwest Iran, dating back approximately 2750 years. Stone inscriptions are inherently vulnerable to environmental factors that can lead to deterioration. To address this concern, the research incorporates structural studies, pathology assessments, and analyses of the inscription's current condition. The results indicate that priority should be given to emergency stabilization and consolidation to prevent the collapse of the inscription, followed by practical measures for ongoing protection, and finally, preventive conservation. Considering the inscription's location approximately 2 kilometers from the village of Saqindel, the following key recommendations are proposed for its preservation and promotion: 1) Community participation in protection efforts, 2) Tourism enhancement and deterrence of unauthorized excavations, 3) Road construction for improved accessibility,4) Site access and signage development, 5) Natural stone staircase construction, 6) Design and insulation of informative signage, 7) Vegetation revitalization in the adjacent valley.
