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Zeinab Haghighat, Mohammad Sohrabi ,
Volume 1, Issue 3 (1-2019)
Abstract

Stone monuments in open natural spaces (such as statues, monuments, petroglyphs, motifs, rock paintings and carvings, historical monuments and archaeological sites) are usually surrounded by communities of various living organisms. These living organisms choose a place to grow and live according to specific conditions such as the type of rock bed, climatic and geographical factors. This article examines the effects of several examples of the presence of these biological communities (bacteria, fungi, algae and lichen), trees, shrubs, grasses, insects and animals in the Parseh and Pasargadae complexes. Awareness of biodiversity and the type of possible damage caused by these organisms is essential for managing preventive conservation programs and the fundamental restoration of World Heritage sites and their healthy transmission to future generations.

Gholamreza Rahmani, Parastoo Erfanmanesh,
Volume 1, Issue 3 (1-2019)
Abstract

Insects are the most important class of the animal kingdom in terms of the number of species and include 2/3 of the known species. In addition to the abundance of species, they also rank first among animal groups in terms of the level of distribution and reproductive power of species.
Living in different climatic and geographical conditions is a normal and almost universal thing for insects due to their small size and very diverse adaptations. The high reproductive power and wide distribution level and the possibility of various adaptations of the morphometric, physiological and biological type have made these animals one of the resistant and invincible vital factors in nature.
Meanwhile, historical-cultural collections, given their special conditions, are no exception to this rule and require specialized studies in this field. In the initial and field studies of the library of the Niavaran Archaeological-Cultural Collection, severe insect pests were observed, so that the carpets of the collection were damaged due to the attack of insect pests. Therefore, in the first step, the pests of the collection were examined and identified, and then the damaged parts were disinfected. In this article, the various steps from diagnosis and identification to disinfection will be presented. 

Yaser Hamzavi,
Volume 1, Issue 4 (3-2019)
Abstract

To preserve valuable architectural works, the first step is to have a complete and comprehensive understanding of these works. Among the valuable parts of architectural works are their decorations and murals. Canvas murals are a type of mural that differs from regular and continuous murals in terms of materials, execution method, and generally in nature. Considering that the first step in preserving a work of art is its understanding and perception, the difference between these works is such that carrying out the usual methods of conservation and restoration (without a correct understanding of the work) will damage their authenticity and integrity. In the research conducted on the subject of canvas murals, some researchers place these works in the group of paintings on canvas, and some researchers also recognize these works as murals, and there is insufficient knowledge in this field. The restoration theories that have been presented and published at the national and international levels have references to the preservation and restoration of historical paintings, but they have not directly mentioned how to preserve and restore canvas murals. In order to reach the theoretical principles and foundations of the preservation and restoration of this type of murals, it is necessary to examine international charters, theories, and guidelines in the field of the preservation of historical paintings so that, according to these theories and also the studies that are carried out in the field of identifying the criteria for the preservation of canvas murals, it is possible to systematically recognize, restore, and display canvas murals correctly. In this article, the constituent layers of historical Iranian murals are first introduced, and then the results of the studies of written sources in the theoretical field of the restoration of historical paintings are presented. In fact, these studies and discussions are an introduction to the preservation and restoration of Iranian canvas murals.

Talhe Ghodousiyan, Abdolbasir Hosseinbor,
Volume 1, Issue 4 (3-2019)
Abstract

The comprehensive and remarkable expansion and progress of sciences, especially in the fields of natural, basic and engineering sciences, has caused a huge leap in scientific and methodological approaches in the fields of humanities, medicine, agriculture and art. This leap has created interdisciplinary knowledge or a common language between different sciences and specialties, and their integration has formed a compatible interaction. Among these, archaeometry is one of the interdisciplinary sciences that was often considered as a side specialty and an addition to archaeological analysis and restoration of historical monuments, but today, with the systematic use of natural, basic and technical and engineering approaches, archaeometry has become a common language of the aforementioned sciences with humanities and arts, especially in the field of cultural heritage studies, and has become more important as an independent specialty than ever before. In the present study, an applied and preliminary model of the position of archaeometric approaches and studies in the recognition and study of architectural heritage and its elements has been presented. The need and demand of conservation researchers for controlled and scientific information and data in recent years has doubled the importance of archaeological approaches, but the lack of data in the field of conservation of Iran's historical monuments, especially architectural heritage, is still clearly felt.

Mozhgan Mousazadeh,
Volume 1, Issue 4 (3-2019)
Abstract

Modern management has increasingly attracted the attention of executive and organizational systems in recent decades. The application of its key components, such as systems thinking, contingency decision-making, the importance of leadership and effectiveness, goal and strategy setting, motivation, and self-regulation, constitutes part of the success factors for today’s human resource managers.
Preservation, restoration, and protection of historical buildings are among the fundamental objectives in the field of cultural heritage. This descriptive–survey study, conducted through a qualitative–analytical method and based on the author’s field experience in supervising 25 projects on the conservation, restoration, and documentation of architectural decorations in historical buildings across Khorasan Razavi province between 2007 and 2016, demonstrates that restoration teams are often composed of academic experts, traditional craftsmen, or a blend of related competencies, each possessing a unique insight and professional commitment to the authenticity of the buildings.
Managers who identify the most qualified individuals and adopt a participatory management approach not only achieve better outcomes in the given projects but also ensure job satisfaction, productivity, synergy, and the professional growth of their teams. Furthermore, they establish sustainable career paths and create opportunities to train and nurture skilled groups for future specialized projects.

Abdullah Nasrollahi ,
Volume 1, Issue 4 (3-2019)
Abstract

Since ancient times, the issue of registration in various areas of life has always been with mankind. Registration is a cultural issue and is considered a reflection of various cultural areas of mankind. Every work left by man in the past, whether it was in the form of an image or a line, reflects and illuminates a world of material and spiritual information and knowledge like an honest mirror without any pretense or imperfection. The characteristic of all registered subjects throughout history has been their "value and importance" for greater permanence and transmission to the periods ahead of them, and this transfer of value to future generations continues today. In the field of cultural heritage and the protection of historical buildings and cities, the issue of registration is very valuable and important. A noteworthy point in this field is the relevance of re-registration of values. Because we re-register the material or spiritual work registered during the creation period so that it is protected and subject to legal protection and public attention, and most importantly, in the process of sustainable development and handed down to future generations. This article, which is the result of objective observations and library and document studies, describes in an analytical-descriptive manner the nature and importance of registration and how the relationship between registration and value, conservation, and sustainable development is defined. Another goal of this article is to examine the role of registration in the protection of cultural heritage values and its place in the sustainable development process.

Gholamreza Rahmani, Behnam Pedram, Mehdi Hosseini ,
Volume 1, Issue 4 (3-2019)
Abstract

The expansion of the scope of ideas and discussions of conservation and restoration, as an interdisciplinary field, in today's world is in harmony with the growth of science in other branches and fields. This movement and flow cause new categories and concepts to enter the theoretical foundations and literature of this field every day. The birth of new ideas and concepts itself causes a change in the view of issues that previously seemed obvious and unchanged. The nature of the movement towards expanding the boundaries of thought and considerations in the science of conservation and restoration leads to the emergence of new perspectives and the proposal of new issues that, in turn, can be effective in judging and evaluating the measures designed and carried out. Studying and reflecting on the new ideas and perspectives raised in the field of conservation and restoration of historical-cultural objects shows a large gap in the country's collection of awareness and knowledge of conservation and restoration regarding the relationship between the audience and the restorer, which was the main factor in choosing and addressing the subject of the present article. On the other hand, some have pointed out that building an audience is not a one-time thing. An audience is always subject to loss and gain, and as a result, a direct and lasting relationship between the artist and his audience is essential. By measuring each of these factors in Iran, we encounter shortcomings in the audience-building process, especially in the field of cultural heritage.

Ehsan Rad,
Volume 1, Issue 4 (3-2019)
Abstract

Khanqah of Sultan Ibrahim Khorrambid is a unique relic of the Timurid period. This building has exquisite stucco decorations, combined stone and tile decorations, and mosaic tiles. The building has a central domed chamber (gonbadkhaneh), the dome of which almost completely collapsed due to the earthquake and only a small part of it remains. Considering the climatic conditions, public expectations, and the need to preserve the decorative elements, reconstruction of the dome is deemed necessary. In the reconstruction of the dome, there are obstacles such as the weakness of the existing structure, the type of structure to be reconstructed, and the style of the dome. In this study, three methods for reconstructing the dome have been proposed: constructing the dome with bricks and implementing a wooden ring in the arch, implementing a combined metal and brick structure, and implementing the dome with a wooden structure. Considering that a small volume of the dome remains and on the other hand, preserving the decorations is important, implementing the dome with a light structure (the last case) is suggested.

Hamid Fadaei, Majid Ayasi , Parisa Babar Shams Mogouei, Masoud Bater, Kazem Borhani-Ahang, Elahe Khakbaz Alvandian, Mohammad-Saeid Saedi , Roozbeh Shamseh, Reza Sheykh-Al-Eslami, Majid Oloumi , Mahdi Koliaei, Nahid Harati-Ardestani , Reza Hormehr , Soheila Zakavi ,
Volume 1, Issue 4 (3-2019)
Abstract

Archaeological excavations at the ancient site of Haft-Tepe commenced in the winter of 1965 under the direction of Dr. Negahban and continued for fourteen seasons until 1978. These excavations led to the discovery of a significant assemblage of architectural remains and diverse historical artefacts. Among the finds were various ceramic vessels and objects, a collection of clay tablets, seals and seal impressions, a range of bronze artefacts, numerous fragments of painted mud plaster, coffins, stone objects, clay busts, as well as decorative items such as necklaces, plaques, glass vessels, and bone tools. A considerable portion of these artefacts is today preserved in the Haft-Tepe Museum. In response to the quantity and importance of the discoveries, the idea of establishing a museum adjacent to the archaeological site was raised during the second season of excavations. Construction began in 1970 and, upon completion, the museum was inaugurated in the spring of 1973. With the outbreak of the Iran–Iraq War in 1980, the museum was closed; part of its prominent collection was transferred to Tehran, while other objects remained in situ. In the spring of 2001, research and conservation activities were resumed under the auspices of the Chogha Zanbil - Haft Tepe Cultural Heritage Base. One of the first major undertakings during this period was the reorganisation of the museum’s collection, carried out in collaboration with graduate students of conservation from the University of Art, Esfahan. In this process, artefacts that had previously been kept in unsuitable and scattered conditions were collected, classified, recorded, documented, and systematically arranged. This initiative laid a crucial foundation for the long-term preservation and safeguarding of the invaluable heritage of Haft-Tepe.

Hossein Beygi, Mohsen Mohammadi Achachluei,
Volume 2, Issue 1 (6-2019)
Abstract

Dry plate glass negatives are important part of the cultural, historical and visual heritage in history of Iran. Structural changes due to factors affected them over time, can cause deterioration in the image. Identifying deteriorations in dry plate glass negatives can help to provide better solutions in preserving them. The investigation of sample by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and x-ray microprobe analyzer (XPMA) indicated that the technique of sample is gelatin and silver halide on glass, and the chemical damages are fading and silver mirroring. Improper washing after fixing and residual of hypo on the surface of image is the main cause of fading. The formation of the silver mirroring is due to the oxidation of silver ions in the emulsion layer and migrate to the surface of the negative.

Masoud Bagherzadeh Kasiri, Sepideh Naghibi,
Volume 2, Issue 1 (6-2019)
Abstract

Studying various aspects of the manuscripts may be important in explaining the actual values of work, and the ways of protecting these values. Therefore, in this research 10 paint samples (blue and red) from the five manuscripts related to Safavid period (16th century) were analyzed to explore their nature and structure. First, the related literature regarding the frequent types of the paints in Safavid period and their preparing recipe were thoroughly reviewed. Then, after sampling of the paints, the analytical techniques including scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to identify red and blue pigments structure. Obtained results confirmed that all the used red and blue pigments in these five manuscripts were of mineral origin. Moreover, the results proved that all of the red pigments used in this manuscript were of vermilion, ocher and red lead (Lead oxide), while the blue pigments are of ultramarine type. Also, the strong peak of FTIR at 2340 cm-1 proved that the ultramarine pigment used is of natural type.

Mohammad Farjami, Hamzeh Hamzeh , Ali Asghar Mahmoudi-Nasab,
Volume 2, Issue 2 (9-2019)
Abstract

Archaeological excavations at historical sites are conducted to enhance our understanding of the past, shedding light on the lives of ancient communities across various regions and periods. South Khorasan, and eastern Iran in general, have been relatively understudied in terms of archaeology, making them among the lesser-known regions of Iran. Recent surveys and excavations in this area have provided highly valuable data for the archaeological community. This study focuses on the conservation of movable and immovable cultural artifacts during archaeological excavations at the historical site of Kahnek, located in Sarbisheh, South Khorasan Province. Four seasons of archaeological excavations were conducted at this site from 2013 to 2016, revealing evidence and cultural materials dating back to the early Islamic centuries through the Safavid period. The site contains two types of artifacts: movable objects, which must be handled separately from architectural remains, and architectural features and associated decorations, which must remain in situ and undergo conservation at the site. Activities such as structural reinforcement, preservation of in-situ remains, and site cleaning have been carried out. These measures aim to implement preventive conservation and mitigate any activities that could damage the site or diminish its historical and cultural significance. This research introduces the historical site and its cultural findings, offering recommendations for preventive conservation during excavations. The research methodology includes library studies, field and regional surveys, analysis of excavation data, and proposals for the temporary conservation of movable and immovable cultural artifacts.

Parastoo Naeimi Taraei, Seyed Mohammad Amin Emami, Abolghasem Dolati,
Volume 2, Issue 2 (9-2019)
Abstract

Various chemical and natural substances have been employed to control corrosion in historical metal artifacts. However, the use of these substances has not always been effective and has occasionally led to secondary issues. This article reviews the existing challenges associated with corrosion inhibitors and investigates factors influencing the selection of materials to optimize corrosion control conditions. Based on available data, a multifunctional derivative of phosphonic acid with active phosphorus and nitrogen centers was selected. Its effectiveness in controlling corrosion of iron artifacts was evaluated through electrochemical impedance and polarization measurements, as well as microscopic methods. The results demonstrate the material’s ability to reduce corrosion rates at very low concentrations with minimal impact on the artifacts’ appearance, marking a significant step toward their preservation. Furthermore, the potential for optimizing corrosion control conditions through the use of complementary materials alongside phosphonic acid derivatives, leveraging their synergistic effects, is discussed.

Faramarz Azadbakht, Mohammad Mortazavi,
Volume 2, Issue 2 (9-2019)
Abstract

Understanding ancient metallurgy is achieved through the study and analysis of metal artifacts and evidence related to extraction and metalworking processes. Examining metal objects provides valuable information about the type of metal or alloy used, manufacturing and decoration techniques, and, in some cases, the type of ore employed. Therefore, analyzing alloy composition and forming techniques is of great importance in archaeometallurgy. This article presents a technical investigation of a bronze lion figurine from the Yazd Museum collection, obtained through illicit excavations. Alloy composition analysis was conducted using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS), and X-ray imaging was employed to investigate the construction method. The results revealed that the figurine is made of a copper-tin alloy (bronze) with the presence of lead. Radiographic images indicated that the figurine is hollow, with its front rod extending into the internal section. Based on these findings, it was determined that the figurine was crafted using the lost-wax technique. Furthermore, the probable shape of the mold used, the manufacturing stages, and its various components are proposed.

Fereshteh Abbasi, Mehdi Razani,
Volume 2, Issue 2 (9-2019)
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.

Hossein Farahmand Boroujeni, Hamidreza Bakhshandehfard,
Volume 2, Issue 2 (9-2019)
Abstract

Each alloy, depending on its constituent metallic elements, manufacturing process, and degradation mechanisms, exhibits unique characteristics. Studying the structure and composition of museum metal artifacts assists researchers in identifying similarities and differences among objects based on various criteria, contributing to a better understanding of the evolution of historical-cultural artifact production techniques. Additionally, such studies enable the identification of internal and external causes and conditions of alloy degradation, paving the way for preventive measures to mitigate or halt deterioration. This research focuses on the technical study and damage assessment of a bronze vessel from the Samavi Collection at the Esfahan Museum of Decorative Arts. Data collection was conducted through library research, and the analogical method was employed for comparative studies. Furthermore, experimental methods including chemical tests, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and radiography were applied to the artifact. This article examines the role of each of these methods and critiques the analogical approach in comparative studies. Based on the results, the artifact is attributed to the region spanning Luristan to Syria and dated to the 7th to 8th centuries BCE. Additional findings include the approximate composition of the artifact’s elements, the use of molding and hot-working techniques in its production, and the identification of carbonate deposits.

Ramin Talei, Parastoo Naeimi Taraei,
Volume 2, Issue 2 (9-2019)
Abstract

With the advent of Islam, bronze temporarily replaced gold and silver in the production of metal vessels. Among the bronze artifacts used during this period, high-tin bronze (white bronze) objects, valued for their silver-like appearance, gained significant attention. One such artifact is a vessel discovered during debris removal operations following the 2003 Bam earthquake, located in the southern part of the Bam Citadel, specifically the southern section of the house known as Mir Akbar. Similar decorative patterns are found in artifacts from the Seljuk and Timurid periods. In this study, the artifact was examined using X-ray imaging, and microstructural analysis of a sample from the vessel’s base was conducted using reflected light optical microscopy after preparation. To further the technical investigation, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) equipped with Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX) was employed to analyze the alloy composition and metallic and non-metallic phases. The results indicate that the vessel was produced through casting, with directional mechanical work causing elongation of non-metallic sulfide phases within the metal matrix. The microstructure of the vessel consists of single copper-rich grains dispersed in a needle-like beta phase rich in tin, characteristic of high-tin bronze (white bronze). After cooling, the alloy underwent heat treatment at approximately 650°C followed by rapid quenching, leading to the formation of the needle-like phase and resulting in the vessel’s hardness and brittleness.

Mahboubeh Abbasabad Arabi, Haydeh Khamseh, Yassin Sedghi,
Volume 2, Issue 2 (9-2019)
Abstract

Decorations and paintings are integral components of Iranian-Islamic architecture. Among the structures that continually evolve in their architectural ornaments and decorations are the mausoleums and shrines of religious figures. One such monument, adorned with diverse wall decorations, is the Imamzadeh Hamzeh ibn Musa (AS) mausoleum located in Dehneh Shirin village, Esfarayen, North Khorasan Province. This study aims to investigate the construction techniques of the wall decorations at the Imamzadeh through laboratory methods, including petrographic thin-section analysis (OPM) to identify the layers and their compositions, and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) to identify red and blue pigments. Petrographic analysis revealed four distinct layers in the wall paintings: the paint layer, the ground layer, the lower primer, and the upper primer. FTIR analysis could not identify the pigments, detecting only bands indicative of calcium sulfate and calcium carbonate in the studied samples. For more precise pigment identification, additional analyses such as Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDX) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD) are required.
 

Ardeshir Kouhzad, Sadegh Sheykhi , Majid Soroush Nia ,
Volume 2, Issue 2 (9-2019)
Abstract

During the second season of excavations at the Joubji archaeological site in Ramhormoz, three clay coffins from the Elamite period were uncovered. This report details all stages of the lightening or removal process of the central coffin, which was filled with soil covering the skeletons inside. The process included fungal decontamination, complete disinfection of the skeletons with necessary chemical agents, consolidation and stabilization of the skeletons, and reinforcement and stabilization of the coffin itself in its current state. The coffin was ultimately extracted from the site using the block-lifting method and transferred to the Ramhormoz Cultural Heritage Office. The rescue conservation of this unique and highly valuable coffin highlights a distinctive burial practice. Without proper attention and completion of specialized final conservation and restoration efforts, the deterioration process would have rapidly commenced. This article addresses the degradation and deterioration processes of the bones within the coffin and the methods employed for their protection.

Mina Kakoei, Mahshid Kakoei,
Volume 2, Issue 3 (1-2020)
Abstract

This paper examines a case study of a zari-baft (brocade) fabric with termeh borders, which had sustained damage such as tears and fiber deterioration due to improper use and suboptimal storage conditions. The fabric, utilized as a tablecloth, exhibits intricate details in the weave of its base material, termeh borders, and golabatoon douzi (gold-thread embroidery). Given the vulnerabilities of the silk base and borders, its restoration requires specialized approaches. This article outlines the treatment process—including cleaning, lining, and reconstruction of stitches—following a detailed introduction of the artifact.


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