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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.

Zahra Morovaty Pour Ghalhe Sheykhy, Hamid Fadaie,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract

On the slopes of Mount Rahmat, located in the southern section of the Throne of Persepolis, between it and the unfinished tomb attributed to Darius III, lies a complex of structures architecturally similar to those situated on the throne itself, sharing the same axis with a deviation of 20 to 25 degrees westward. This complex, known as the Barzan-e Jonoobi, comprises eight separate structures interconnected by designed pathways and corridors and generally features columned halls and porticos. The measures taken to address various climatic challenges in this area, such as managing the slope of the land,
controlling floods from the mountains, establishing order in the form and structures, access routes, and passageways, as well as architectural and urban design elements, reflect the application of urban planning and design knowledge in its development. Unfortunately, after initial excavation and a few preliminary conservation efforts, the structures in the Barzan-e Jonoobi site have been left unattended. The predominant material used in this area is Mudbrick, and the lack of ongoing maintenance has led to the deterioration and decay of these mudbrick structures. The inherently unstable nature of these mud brick structures highlights the importance and necessity of continuous preservation and maintenance of this valuable site. Therefore, in this study, after examining the factors causing damage, a conservation plan was proposed within the framework of a comprehensive protection plan. This plan aims to reduce the rate of erosion and address the damages caused by the identified harmful factors. The research methodology employed in this article is applied and field-based in terms of its purpose and approach, and the data were analyzed qualitatively based on logical reasoning. Data collection tools included library research (note-taking, maps, sketches) and field methods (observations, interviews, photography).

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.

Sanaz Aliakbari, Alireza Koochakzaei,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract

Lacquer paintings hold not only historical significance but also aesthetic value. The motifs and materials used in these artworks can vary depending on the cultural context of the society. Examining these types of works can provide valuable insights into the culture, economy, technology, and native materials of different ethnic groups. Lacquered paintings are considered highly valuable and require careful conservation measures. The purpose of this report is to present the protective process carried out on a lacquered bookbinding from the Qajar era. The initial investigation revealed the need for consolidation, separation of the leather from the bookbinding, surface cleaning, patching, restoration of the corners, priming, coloring, and final coating. To achieve this, the following materials and methods were employed: 5% Plextol for consolidation, a mixture of tissue paper pulp with gelatin and marble dust as a putty to restore the corners, a combination of HV360 adhesive with distilled water and marble dust for the primer layer, acrylic paint for coloring, and a final 3% polyvinyl butyral layer for further protection of the paint layers.

Morteza Rezvanfar,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract

Caucasus is the region between the Caspian and Black seas. The Caucasus Mountains divide it into northern and southern parts. The North Caucasus is a part of Russia where has seven autonomous republics and two krais. From the east, the republics are: 1- Dagestan, 2- Chechnya, 3- Ingushetia, 4- North Ossetia, 5- Kabardino-Balkaria, 6- , Karachay-Cherkessia, and 7- Adygea, and the krais are Krasnodar Krai and Stavropol Krai. South Caucasus also includes 3 countries, the Republic of Azerbaijan, Armenia and Georgia. This text describes a research trip to Derbent, Dagestan. The goal was to find and prepare identity card from Persian inscriptions and some buildings with inscriptions in this city. Derbent is a small coastal city that was separated from Iran by the Golestan Treaty. This city has 150 registered artifacts and about 100 Persian inscriptions (Pahlavi and Dari Persian) from the Sassanid, Safavid, and Qajar periods. Juma Mosque in Derbend, after Narin Castle and Hesar, is the most important heritage work in the city of Derbend, which has always been
the focus of regional governments, so it has valuable inscriptions from the Mongol, Turkish, Arab and Iranian governments. The mosque's 1330-year-old age, as well as its architectural style, were the criteria for registering this valuable work under the Derbend World File in UNESCO.

Faramarz Rostami Charati, Parastoo Erfanmenesh, Fathollah Niyazi,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract

 In this research, the chemical and antimicrobial analysis of the essential oil extracted from coal smoke was investigated. The operation of collecting wood vinegar by condensing the smoke exhaust gases resulting from pyrolysis of citrus and lemon trees in the coal production process in the north of the country was carried out in three stages. By performing the necessary chemical analyzes on these extractive materials, the presence of various organic compounds such as saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons and aromatic compounds is visible. At the end, checking the anti-micron effects of these extracted substances with samples of fungi and bacteria available in the laboratory has been tested initially. The use of plant compounds, especially plant extracts, is one of the most promising alternatives to chemical pesticides. Plant extracts have a wide range of secondary metabolites that play an important role in plant-pest interactions. which due to its antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties can be considered a suitable alternative in the field of agricultural food and medicine. They are produced from plant or microbial sources that have less risks for the environment and human health and can be used in two ways. The use of natural pesticides as an environmentally friendly approach in preserving cultural heritage can be considered as an innovation in this field. be considered Essential oils such as peppermint oil, rosemary oil and other oils with antimicrobial and sunscreen properties can be used to preserve cultural works against the growth of microbes and insect spawning. It is important that when using natural pesticides to preserve cultural works, it is important to be careful and know the characteristics of each substance and how to use them correctly to ensure of prevent any damage to cultural historical monuments. The wood species considered for the preparation of vinegar was lemon tree from the north of the country. The organic solvents used in the extraction process were dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, diethyl chloroform, and THF, which were obtained from the Indian company
Loba Chem. The devices used in this research are NMR, FTIRGC-Mass and TLC.
Microbial tests are performed with two types of strains. The fungus was Spexillus niger and Penicillium. In this experiment, the pyrolysis process of lemon tree wood has been tested in the coal production furnace in the north of the country. During the entire production process, a batch of production was carried out in a controlled manner. The wood was collected with three different cuts. The first cut was watery and transparent, which was not the target of the study. The middle cut was the target composition that was collected. It is mainly composed of organic materials and its investigation is not included in this project. The composition of the red colored liquid of the wood extracted from the middle section was transferred to the laboratory in the next step with organic solvents such as dichloromethane and other pairs of organic solvents into two phases. Aqueous and organic were purified and separated. After that each of the extracted phases have been subjected to necessary chemical and microbial analyses. The use of extractive materials of natural compounds is of particular importance due to its environmental friendliness. Essential oils and plant extracts can be used as natural and safe pesticides. Since ancient
times, producing charcoal from wood as a heat source has been a very common method. However, the extraction and burning of coal smoke has not been addressed until many applications of coal smoke have been reported in the present era. The use of essential oil from coal smoke in agricultural industries is also possible because it can be used as a fertilizer due to the rich source of organic carbon. However, in many articles, this essential oil has been mentioned as a control agent for biological and anti-fungal and bacterial agents. Based on this, the current research has been designed to extract aromatic and essential oils with a natural base, especially from waste materials such as charcoal smoke, which is a valuable branch in the direction of extracting and using biocompatible materials to control fungal and microbial factors in the field of heritage. Based on the investigations and the results of chemical and analytical analyzes as well as microbial tests, the targeted essential oil (from lemon tree charcoal) has aliphatic and aromatic compounds that are effective
in controlling microbial agents. The effectiveness of this test is different for different types of wood and different microbial strains. Depending on the concentration of the extracted smoke sample, different results will be output. It is likely that charcoal essential oil is more effective at higher concentrations and should be tested.

Fatemeh Alimirzaei,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract

In this report we wanted to remind parts of principles and methods of conservation and restoration of pottery objects, and to present reconstruction process of two large pottery Jar (Khomreh) belong to Sassanian period during a written and illustrated report. also, we explained the difference created when choosing materials and methods. The jars were obtained from excavating Varamin Plain by Dr. Morteza Hesari in 2017. They were restored at the conservation pottery workshop of the Research Institute of Cultural Heritage & Tourism Research center for conservation and restoration of relics (RCCCR).

Sayede Elahe Alavi Dehkordi,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract

The "Illustrated Atlas of Pathology of Historical-Cultural Textiles" by Fatemeh Alimirzaei and Shahrzad Aminshirazi is specially designed for conservators,
restorers, students, museum curators, and collectors handling different categories of textiles. The book is divided into three chapters, addressing the pathology of historical textiles from three perspectives: physical-mechanical, chemical, and photochemical. However, the distinction of photochemical from chemical is rejected as unjustified since photochemical reactions are a subtype of chemical reactions induced by photons. A more suitable third type could be biological effects, which involve harm inflicted with the help of living organisms, including microbes, rodents, and insects.

Nasrin Noohi Babajan, Farah Madani, Manijeh Hadian Dehkordi,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract

Valuable cultural heritage is always exposed to the invasion of biological agents and the resulting destruction, especially when the physical and chemical conditions of the work and its surrounding environment are compatible with the characteristics of an organism or a microorganism. Therefore, preventing the occurrence of such conditions and limiting the invasion of biological agents should be among the main and primary goals of every center. Over the years, various methods such as the use of disinfectants have been used to control biological agents in various historical and cultural collections. With the passage of time and increasing awareness of the harmful effects of these substances on the treated works, the environment and the users, nowadays the use of non-toxic alternative methods is more recommended. Experience has shown that the method that causes the least damage to collections and employees is preventive methods and regular control, which is possible through monitoring and managing the environment. Integrated pest management with the ultimate goal of removing harmful biological agents from a place is one of the long-term preventives and non-toxic methods of controlling biological agents that is used in many museums, archives, and libraries. In this article, along with a brief overview of biological deterioration and its preventive and control strategies, microbiological monitoring of the air inside 4 storerooms in the world heritage complex of Golestan Palace Museum including: the anthropological clothing, the manuscripts, the carpets, and the Painting storerooms was carried out. For this purpose, air sampling was done by sedimentation method and isolated microbial colonies on the culture media were investigated and identified. The results of the microbiological monitoring of the air inside the storerooms in this study showed that except for the carpet storeroom, other studied storerooms, including the anthropological clothing, the manuscript and the painting storerooms, are acceptable in terms of the number of microorganisms in the air.

Masoome Amighpey, Fatemeh Ghoraiyan, Akram Molayi,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract

Antiquities and cultural heritage are the birth certificates of any country. Since the ancient works define any land's age, history, and civilization, it is necessary to protect cultural historical works by combining science and art. Iran is one of the first in the world to have ancient monuments and historical and cultural buildings and has the oldest culture and civilization. Climate changes around the world and their consequences in the form of continuous droughts, water shortages, and seasonal floods have cast a shadow on the country's cultural heritage in the past few years. One of the consequences of
climate change has been water scarcity and pressure on underground water resources. The lack of management of underground water resources and their indiscriminate extraction has caused widespread subsidence in the world and Iran. On the one hand, subsidence is considered an environmental threat that destroys the aquifer and soil, and on the other hand, it destroys the buildings and structures located in the place. Many subsidence has spread to urban areas and caused destruction and damage to ancient monuments. Geodetic data and methods such as radar interferometry, GPS data, accurate leveling
observations, and gravimeters are used to diagnose and monitor the areas affected by the risk of subsidence. Radar interferometry with wide coverage and high spatial resolution, along with GPS with high temporal resolution, as well as accurate leveling observations and high-precision gravimeters, can be a suitable source for changing the shape of the earth's surface in the region. GonbadKavos Tower, the tallest brick tower in the world, is one of the most important ancient monuments of Iran in Golestan province. Considering the importance of protecting ancient and historical monuments, it is important to investigate the amount of subsidence of the Gorgan Plain in the area of this tower to evaluate its effect on the shape of the tower.
To investigate the area and extent of subsidence of Gorgan Plain, the integration of geodetic observations in the region, including radar interferometry, leveling, and GPS was used. To investigate the subsidence range of this province, 53 sensor radar images were obtained from the Sentinel-1 satellite from the European Space Center between July 2017 and June 2019. The results show that due to the lack of management of the process of extracting  underground water sources in the Gorgan Plain, unfortunately, this plain has experienced extensive land surface subsidence with a maximum rate of 22 cm per year. One of the sensitive structures located in the subsidence area of the Gorgan Plain is the Gonbad Kavos Tower. The rate of subsidence in the area of this tower is 6 cm per year. Also, the changes in the subsidence rate in the area of the tower and its surroundings are significant. To preserve and maintain this tower, the need to use methods of strengthening the structure in this historical work is something that should be taken into consideration.
On the other hand, it is suggested to manage the use of underground water resources in the Gorgan Plain, modify the cultivation pattern to prohibit the cultivation of water-rich crops in agriculture, and artificially feed the aquifer to stop subsidence in the Gorgan region. It is also suggested to use micro geodesy observations and calculations to investigate and monitor the shape change of this historical tower.
 
Moein Poursadegh, Mohsen Mohamadi Achacheloei,
Volume 6, Issue 3 (12-2023)
Abstract

In this research, considering the necessity of conservation and restoration of wooden doors and their significance in Iranian architecture, as well as understanding the structure of historical wooden artifacts, necessary actions were taken to study, restore, and conserve a two-leaf wooden door belonging to the ivan of Sukiass house in Isfahan. Following preliminary damage assessment, various tests (including pH testing, colorimetry, equilibrium moisture content measurement, species identification, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy) were conducted on the study sample. The results indicated the acidic nature of the structure of the sample under study, minimal color changes before and after the restoration process, standard equilibrium moisture content, the use of Oriental Plane tree wood (Platanus orientalis L) in the construction of the artifact, and the absence of significant structural damage on the sample surface. Historical wooden artifacts are typically classified into three main categories of physical, chemical, and biological damages. The study sample exhibited physical damages such as abrasion, cracking, and microcracks, environmental temperature effects resulting in color changes on the artifact,s surface, as well as the impacts of dust and debris. In the chemical damage category, tissue acidification in the artifact was observed, along with noticeable impacts of pollution. Biological damages caused by insect infestations, categorized under wood biological damages, were visible as multiple
boreholes on the artifact,s surface. Additionally, the presence of a burnt section at the lower part of one of the door leaves is another damage incurred by the study artifact. In line with conservation and aesthetic principles, necessary measures include cleaning the door and its frame, addressing deficiencies and cracks, protecting the artifact from pests, and applying polish and acid treatment.

Fatemeh Alimirzaei, Samad Samanian,
Volume 6, Issue 4 (3-2024)
Abstract

The conservation of historical artifacts, as a profession that closely linked to the prevailing history and culture in individual and social life, carries a heavy mission and responsibility towards the creators and owners of these artifacts in the past, present, and future. On the other hand, despite the diversity of thoughts, desires, and approaches, it is an activity that must be conducted within a specific scientific and theoretical framework. Conservators, while adhering to this specified framework, must also consider particular ethical considerations. These considerations are crucial not only for maintaining the quality and clarity of conservation activities for the conservators and their audience but also for making them aware of the ethical consequences of their actions and the ethical standards used to evaluate those actions. These ethical considerations have been variously addressed in the theories and documents related to the conservation and restoration field as the profession has evolved. In this research, an attempt is made to provide definitions and basic concepts related to the topic, alongside examples of ethical codes in the conservation profession with an interpretive approach. The aim of this research is to understand the role and function of ethics in conservation and restoration processes and some ethical considerations when dealing with artifacts. To this end, To this end, ethical conduct documents prepared by several conservation institutions, such as the American Institute for Conservation (AIC), the Canadian Association for Conservation (CAC), the International Council of Museums Committee for Conservation (ICOM-CC), the European Confederation of Conservator-Restorers' Organisations (ECCO), and the United Kingdom Institute for Conservation (UKIC), have been examined as case studies. The reviews revealed that these documents strive to define the boundaries of professional conservation, with the primary goal of protecting public assets and gaining public trust and social approval for the profession. Therefore, they focus on the interests of humanity rather than professional interests and develop conservation ethics based on attention to universal values and a focus on cultural values.

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.

Zahra Bidkhouri, Kourosh Momeni ,
Volume 8, Issue 4 (3-2026)
Abstract

The importance of the historical castles of Ilam province is above all because this region, as one of the government centers, was the site of the formation of prominent castles during the Sassanid period, which introduced the political and social structure of that era.  Over time, a number of these monuments have lost their original function and have become abandoned, making their preservation an inevitable necessity. Adaptive reuse through appropriate change of use is an effective solution for the restoration of these valuable buildings.  The main   question of the research is: "How can we help preserve and restore the historical castles of Ilam with an adaptive reuse (AR) approach?" The research method is mixed and data were collected and analyzed from documentary studies and field observations. The statistical population includes ten students of the sixth semester of the Bachelor of Architecture program at Jundi- Shapur University of Technology in Dezful, and the "Architectural Design 3" workshop was chosen as the research context. The results show that the focus of the designs was on creating new spaces and the strategy of annexation was used more than installation and intervention. Also, the annexations were mainly formed in the form of two groups of space and element and the most extensive changes were in the facade materials. The final result indicates that the adaptive reuse approach not only helps to preserve and restore the historical castles of Ilam, but also, in the form of educational projects, improves students' understanding of how to integrate contemporary design with the historical and physical values of heritage buildings.

Elaheh Hajjari, Mohammad Mortazavi, Keyvan Raeissi, Mohammad Hafezi Kahnamoei ,
Volume 8, Issue 4 (3-2026)
Abstract

The inherent instability of archaeological iron objects is due to contaminated with chloride ions from the burial environment, as well as being exposed to oxygen and high relative humidity. Therefore, the removal of chloride ions and the stabilization of active corrosion are essential steps to prevent further deterioration and to preserve these artefacts. Numerous scholars have investigated various methods for the dechlorination of archaeological irons. However, the complexity of the corrosion mechanisms, the varying condition under which artefacts were buried, the specific characteristic of each object, and the ethical principles of conservation and restoration confront conservation scientists with significant challenges. As a result, from the earliest research in this field to the present day, studies in the subjects are still ongoing. A meticulous review of the literature can lead to a better understanding of existing research findings and help identify aspects that more research is needed. The aim of this paper is to review, critique and examine each of the different chlorination methods, while also discussing their disadvantages and limitations. This review discuses different methods of chloride ions removal and stabilization of archaeological iron artefacts, including electrochemical techniques, immersion in alkaline aqueous solutions, application of subcritical fluids, hydrogen plasma, and biological treatment using bacteria. In addition, factors affecting the process before, during, and after dechlorination, as well as the specific challenges of treating large and composite objects are examined. Finally, by reviewing and comparing the studies conducted in this paper, it was found that there are still gaps in this regard, the analysis of which will ultimately lead to the application and optimization of appropriate dechlorination methods tailored to the specific characteristics of each object and its conservation conditions.

Leyli Nemani Khiyavi, Hossein Ahmadi , Seyyed Mohammad Amin Emami,
Volume 8, Issue 4 (3-2026)
Abstract

The conservation of historic bricks is considered one of the fundamental components in safeguarding architectural heritage, as brick, one of the predominant materials in Iran’s historic architecture is exposed to a wide range of complex weathering and deterioration processes. Consolidation, as one of the most important conservation interventions, is employed to enhance structural cohesion, reduce vulnerability, stabilize decay, and improve the durability of porous materials (Doehne & Price, 2011). Nevertheless, although consolidation can mitigate the effects of deterioration, it does not necessarily eliminate the root causes of decay, and when improperly applied, it may result in undesirable secondary and long-term consequences (Daniels, 2015; Kumar Ginell, 1997).

Seyyedeh Samira Altaha Bonab, Ahad Nejad Ebrahimi,
Volume 8, Issue 4 (3-2026)
Abstract

Karbandi is a decorative-structural element of Iranian architecture implemented based on precise geometry that has been used in various and diverse parts of it, and one of the important parts of Karbandi is the application in the construction of the Chapireh. Iranian architects in dome houses used the chapireh to convert the square field into a circle, which has two parts: corner construction and shikanj. The aim of this research is to examine historical examples and categorize the forms of Karbandi implemented in the shikanj in line with the typology and systematic classification of historical examples. Also, the features of each of the implemented Karbandi will be examined in terms of the field and type of Karbandi in order to determine the relationship between the type of Karbandi implemented in the shikanj with the field and sides of the Karbandi.  The research background shows that the Shikanj can be implemented in two ways: arched and karbandi. to achieve this goal, a classification of the form of the Karbandi in the studied Shikanj was presented. This research is a qualitative research that was conducted using a descriptive-analytical method and the necessary information was obtained through library studies, objective observation, and examination of available samples. The results of the research show that the Karbandi in Shikanj can be divided into two categories from a shape perspective: large arch (including simple and with a Sosany) and small arch (including arch with Karbandi, simple Sakonj with Karbandi, and Torbe Filposh with Karbandi), each of which has its own characteristics that can be applied in fields such as half-arches. This research does not directly provide implementation instructions; but its results can help in subsequent studies and the process of recognizing authenticity in the conservation and restoration of the Karbandi implemented in Shikanj.

Mehdi Razani, Hamid Fadaei,
Volume 8, Issue 4 (3-2026)
Abstract

Archaeological sites, as sensitive areas embodying diverse cultural, historical, and scientific values require coherent policies and mechanisms for their protection. Although in recent decades the importance of conserving such sites has been highlighted in both cultural discourse and professional practice, the absence of specific, coordinated strategic documents has led to various challenges during and after excavations. This article, grounded in field experiences and interdisciplinary collaboration among specialists and practitioners, underscores the necessity of formulating a National Conservation Document for Archaeological Excavations. The primary goal of this document is to institutionalize conservation as an integral component of the archaeological excavation process an approach that begins before excavation and continues through post-excavation long-term monitoring. This paper presents a structured proposal aimed at establishing a comprehensive framework for defining responsibilities, scheduling conservation actions, and promoting inter-sectoral coordination in conservation and restoration activities during excavations. The principles, objectives, and practical recommendations of the proposed document are presented in the form of eight main articles, each accompanied by relevant clauses and provisions.

Gholamreza Rahmani , Nima Nezafati, Morteza Hessari,
Volume 8, Issue 4 (3-2026)
Abstract

The Sofalin Mound is located north of the city of Pishva, on natural hills formed by early Holocene deposits (alluvial sediments older than 4,000 years). Systematic and continuous excavations at the Sofalin Mound have been carried out over the past several years in seven seasons as part of broader archaeological investigations in the VaraminPishva Plain. Cultural materials recovered from the Sofalin Mound in the north-central Iranian Plateau have significantly enhanced our understanding of the proto-literate period, dated between 3500 and 2800 BCE, within the cultural sphere of the north-central plateau of Iran. During the sixth and seventh excavation seasons at the Sofalin site, architectural spaces were uncovered in Trench 20. These spaces were documented as featuring cobblestone floors, mudbrick platforms, and rectilinear architectural layouts. Based on ceramic assemblages (plain and painted), clay sealings, and fragmented clay tablets, occupation during different phases of the Early Elamite cultural period was identified. This research focuses on the technical and laboratory investigation of Early Elamite mudbrick architectural remains from the Sofalin Mound using X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, complemented by chemical studies aimed at proposing appropriate conservation strategies. The primary objective of this study is to achieve a semi-quantitative structural characterization of mudbricks from this period in order to enhance our understanding of their mineralogical composition. Such knowledge contributes to the development of effective conservation approaches for the Sofalin Mound as well as other contemporaneous mudbrick archaeological sites.


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