Showing 94 results for Conservation
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.
Seyyedeh Elahe Alavi Dehkordi, Mehernaz Azadi Boyaghchi,
Volume 2, Issue 3 (1-2020)
Abstract
Given the significance of historical artifacts, the approach and provision of strategies for extending their lifespan are of paramount importance. To undertake a correct and appropriate intervention, commensurate with the condition of the artifact, a comprehensive understanding of the damaged object's state, as well as thorough knowledge of executable conservation and restoration methods, are essential. In this regard, with the aim of introducing executable conservation and restoration methods, a rectangular-shaped Termeh textile sample—measuring 75 cm (minimum) by 79 cm (maximum), featuring a dark blue (sormeh) background with a repeating boteh (paisley) motif and framing—was studied, conserved, and restored. This project, titled "Executive Methods for the Conservation and Restoration of a Termeh Textile Attributed to the Late Qajar or Early Pahlavi Era," involved a piece from a private collection. The research methodology employed was both library and field research. Ultimately, based on the damages identified on the artifact, two methods—stitching and adhesive treatment—were utilized for its conservation and restoration.
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.
Maryam Askari Arami, Mohammad Taghi Ashouri, Shahrazad Amin Shirazi, Fatemeh Alimirzaei,
Volume 2, Issue 3 (1-2020)
Abstract
Accessories such as hats are integral components of traditional attire, and undoubtedly, hats rank among the most significant elements of historical and local clothing for both men and women. The diversity and variety of clothing accessories, including hats, preclude the application of a single, universal solution for their care. Improper display or storage of these items—due to folding, environmental contaminants, unsuitable temperature, dust, inadequate lighting, etc.—can cause severe and irreversible damage, altering their structure and form. A tailored approach to conservation, display, and storage, considering each hat’s material, form, and specific vulnerabilities, is crucial for their preservation. Moreover, systematic storage and appropriate display methods can protect hats from numerous degrading factors. This article describes the procedures performed on hats from an ethnographic collection, culminating in the implementation of a conservation plan for these artifacts. The plan included surface and mechanical cleaning, structural stabilization, and provided recommendations for optimal storage and display of the collection.
Shokoufeh Mesbahi,
Volume 2, Issue 3 (1-2020)
Abstract
The Golestan Palace World Heritage Collection serves as the premier reference for the study of Qajar-era carpets. The carpets within this collection can be classified into various categories based on dimensions, design, pattern, region of production, material composition, age, and historical period. A significant number of these carpets, particularly the large-format ones, were commissioned works. Among them, the carpet presented by Sultan Abdul Hamid II of the Ottoman Empire to Naser al-Din Shah Qajar is of particular importance due to the distinctive manner in which it was conserved and displayed, representing the first museological approach to carpets in Iran. The research methodology combined library and field studies focusing on the carpets of Golestan Palace, the Abdul Hamid carpet, and the White Palace (Kakh-e Abiyaz), alongside an analysis of visual and documentary materials available at the Golestan Palace Documentation Center.
Mehri Ghobadi , Mohsen Mohammadi Achachlouei,
Volume 2, Issue 4 (1-2020)
Abstract
Cleaning and washing of historical artifacts and textiles remain one of the most critical and challenging aspects of conservation and restoration. To evaluate the quality of detergents used in the conservation of historical textiles, laboratory samples are required. However, due to the unique characteristics of historical artifacts, existing standardized soiling methods are insufficient for researchers in this field. Therefore, this study aims to prepare artificially soiled cotton fabric samples subjected to accelerated aging. To achieve this goal, the type and amount of soiling were first determined, followed by monitoring and analyzing the degradation of samples during accelerated aging. The research methodology was based on analytical-comparative approaches, with data collected through experiments such as Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, tensile strength testing, equilibrium moisture content, electrical conductivity, color measurement, and pH assessment. The procedure involved preparing, soiling, and aging cotton fabrics, with degradation changes monitored and compared to those of clean samples. Results indicate that after approximately 700 hours of accelerated aging under elevated temperature and humidity (110°C and 90% relative humidity), the samples reached a relatively stable state in terms of degradation changes. This stability allows minor adverse effects of detergents to be clearly detectable. Thus, the minimum time required for aging and preparing laboratory samples of soiled fabrics is approximately 700 hours at 110°C and 90% relative humidity.
Mona Soltani,
Volume 2, Issue 4 (1-2020)
Abstract
with the entry of carpets into museums and private collections, their function changed, and new values such as historical and cultural significance were attributed to them. Gradually, they became subject to modern concepts of preservation and restoration. Many methods used for centuries by traditional restorers in repairing and maintaining carpets were deemed unnecessary for treating museum carpets. Consequently, most treatment decisions, guided by the principles of minimal intervention and reversibility, became synonymous with various stabilization techniques. Given the historical background and role of traditional restoration in the process of preserving and restoring damaged carpets from the past to the present, this question arises: Can museum carpets be conserved without considering the positive potentials of traditional restoration? Answering this question has always been one of the most important debates between advocates of traditional and modern restoration in the conservation of carpets with museum value. Accordingly, this article aims to precisely understand traditional restoration, its goals and duties, as well as its place in the conservation of museum carpets. This research is applied and based on library studies, collection and examination of case studies through field methods, and personal experiences. The results indicate that techniques commonly used in traditional restoration can play a significant role in treating museum carpets and ensuring their preservation and longevity. Moreover, there is a continuous professional relationship between traditional restoration and conservation.
Elahhe Sadat Talebi Moqaddam,
Volume 2, Issue 4 (1-2020)
Abstract
The Ma'raq gold-embroidered curtain (Code 031) is among the exquisite artifacts dating back to the Qajar period, preserved in the collection of the Astan Quds Razavi. Due to the use of this precious artistic artifact in the Astan Quds Razavi complex, over time and under various factors, it has sustained diverse damages. To preserve this valuable textile artifact, its restoration was carried out in the Textile Restoration Workshop of Astan Quds Razavi. This article, with a brief overview of the technology and pathology of the gold-embroidered curtain (Code 031), aims to examine the restoration methods applied to it based on field studies.
Mehdi Razani,
Volume 2, Issue 4 (1-2020)
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.
Yaser Hamzavi, Hosein Ahmadi,
Volume 3, Issue 1 (6-2020)
Abstract
Murals are the main, media of human culture and civilization and the place and its long history in Iranian art is clear. There are specific forms of mural paintings in some Iranian architecture that are different from other usual wall paintings in materials, methods as well as implementation techniques. Unfortunately, these mural paintings are not studied certainly until now. Therefore, further investigation is needed due to the importance of this issue. Regarding to importance of necessity of art understanding before conservation, it is obvious that common conservation procedures on these relics (without appropriate understanding) have an inappropriate results on authenticity and integrity of the relics. Unfortunately, there is not adequate research about technology and conservation of these relics and related fields. Historical points, manufacturing and used materials, effects of technological problems, as introduction to conservation plan were main questions. The aim of this research is the identification of history of development, and used materials and techniques in these historic paintings by field and literature investigations. Technological understanding of this kind of murals during the time by application of literature review and data explanation. Due to low information in Persian, European Marouflaged Mural has been studied more than Iranian relics. The research subject and case studies are studied in a qualitative and descriptive research method and the subject is considered with ten historical and theoretical aspects. These paintings are executed on the layer of cloth (canvas) and then installed on the wall that is known as a part of the architecture arrays. This research at the first library study is conducted and then according to the results, the field studies are carried out and finally, the data are analyzed. Knowing the number of Marouflage according to literature review, the identification of constituent layers of Marouflage according to field studies, and Understanding the differences between a common wall Paintings and Marouflaged Mural in Iran, are the results of this paper. In this paper, the process of formation of this type of wall painting in Iran was studied and present examples of this method in Iranian architecture are introduced and explained. Some of the architectural interior surfaces are decorated by the textile painting by Marouflaged in Ilkhanid, Safavid and Quajar period; funerary monuments with polygonal plan have the most decorative surfaces such as Soltanieh Dome, Sheykh Safi mausoleum, Maryam church, Golestan palace and etc. According to studies, there was technical change in manufacturing process of large wall paintings and ceiling paintings at Renaissance period. It resulted to production of new kind of murals which known as Marouflaged Mural. The research obtained appropriate results about production, manufacturing, historical samples and effect of technological problems on conservation of Marouflaged Mural.
Ehsan Harati, Mahmoud Bakhtyari Shahri ,
Volume 3, Issue 1 (6-2020)
Abstract
Reflection and fluorescent imaging techniques play a very important role in conservation of cultural heritage. Visible images are the best tool to register and inspect an art work in the absence of it. Nowadays modern digital camera facilitate this process. Additionally, ultraviolet (UV) images are a good tool to analyse painting surface layer and investigate the conservation state of objects. Also, UV florescent reveals information about chemical nature of varnish, pigments, restoration treatment and retouches. This technique is fast, inexpensive and in-situ. In current paper, we investigated the potential of ultra-violet fluorescence and visible reflectance technique to investigate the current conservation state of an oil painting and two manuscripts. The apparent characteristics of the work were examined and recorded by image of Visible light and image of fluorescence. The Florence image has patched up areas that have lost their color or identified areas that had been restored, so the Florence image, in the absence of a history of the effect, gives a clear picture of the condition of the previous restoration and the damage done to the painting. Also, in examining a historical-cultural version, it was possible to identify the areas that had been biologically attacked. Examination of another manuscript with ultraviolet fluorescence radiation showed that the red color used in the prescription is probably a discolored pigment.
Yasin Sedghi, Mohsen Ghanooni,
Volume 3, Issue 2 (9-2020)
Abstract
The use of non-destructive methods has become one of the most important topics in the field of scientific studies related to the conservation and restoration of historical artifacts. Because the use of such methods has included a large amount of research in this field due to respect for the artifacts themselves and the avoidance of structural interference. This approach is central to the conservation and restoration of cultural heritage. This paper aims to define and apply a targeted methodology for selecting museum artifacts for display, exhibition, or storage in collections. Furthermore, this article examines the practices of the Dafineh Museums Group regarding the non-destructive analyses conducted on the artifacts in their possession. The research conducted is categorized into two types: portable instrumental methods and technical imaging
methods, developed to support conservation goals, museum display, and authentication of existing artifacts. Therefore, this paper briefly
reports on the major activities undertaken based on the principles of scientific conservation.
Hamid Fadaei, Azita Mirzaye ,
Volume 3, Issue 3 (12-2020)
Abstract
The Southern Mound of Konar Sandal, situated in the Halil River basin, is one of the most significant prehistoric sites in the Jiroft plain. Among the notable discoveries at this site is a life-sized clay relief positioned within a recessed, doorway-like feature in a large room. This relief, recognized as the oldest known example of a monumental clay relief integrated with architecture in the Middle East, dates back to the third millennium BCE. Since its discovery in 2006, its conservation has posed significant challenges for experts. The history of illegal excavations in the region and the lack of adequate infrastructure for permanent protection and maintenance of the site have exacerbated these challenges, leading to occasional proposals to transfer the artifact to a museum. The primary research question focuses on identifying an appropriate approach for the on-site conservation of the clay relief. Using both library-based research and fieldwork, this study gathered information related to the site and the relief, documented environmental factors contributing to its deterioration, and analyzed the data. The findings indicate that the current protective cover is inadequate. Environmental conditions, particularly moisture rising from the soil containing soluble salts, significantly accelerate the relief's erosion and the deterioration of its surface paint layers. Based on these findings, the study provides recommendations for optimizing the conservation of the relief.
Samera Salimpour Abkenar, Reza Mohammadi Ali Malek,
Volume 3, Issue 3 (12-2020)
Abstract
Nowadays, preparing a natural, non-toxic, low-cost, and biodegradable substrate called “Green sheet” is one of the new approaches to Nano sciences and biotechnology. Green sheets have multiple functions in various industries such as food packaging, preparation of wound dressings, hospital clothes, drug delivery systems, perfumery, antiperspirant, antimicrobial, and insect repellent, and they have found a special position. One of their unique applications is the use of cultural heritage, such as conservation in the restoration of ancient works, and historical documents, packaging and transportation of historical objects, and making traditional dolls and embroidery. In this study, a natural sheet was prepared using unreelable cocoons through degumming, opening, and finishing processes in the presence of a natural crosslinking agent and the well-known pad-dry-cure method. Tea tree and oregano plant oils were applied to achieve an antimicrobial property. The antimicrobial activity was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans through qualitative and quantitative methods. The results showed that the silk sheet had good resistance against the mentioned microorganisms.
Narguess Afzalipour, Shahrazad Amin-Shirazi Nezhad,
Volume 3, Issue 3 (12-2020)
Abstract
Cheharabad Zanjan mine is one of the few ancient salt mines in the world and the only identified salt mine in Iran that has evidence of salt extraction in a long period of time from about 500 BC to the modern era. According to the field research conducted so far in the explored area of the mountain of this mine, the mining activities related to the Achaemenid, Sassanid, Middle and Late Islamic periods have been proven. What has been done in this project is the result of a year of group effort by experts during the solar years of 1398 and 1399 in order to protect, maintain and restore a valuable collection, uncovered from Cheharabad mine in Zanjan. Leather bag, fur-leather gloves, skins, and leather shoes are among the prominent objects of this collection. Following the decisions made by the managers of the exploration in this historical mine, some of the uncovered objects were selected for preparation and presentation in a joint exhibition between the National Museum of Iran and the Bochum Mining Museum with the title "Death in the Salt Mine, an Archaeological Narrative from the Land of Pars". became in order to present various works in this exhibition, it was necessary to study and protect them with the aim of checking the conditions of the works, necessary protective measures and carrying out preparatory operations for the safe display of the works in the exhibition. 33 leather objects, 23 wooden objects, 7 plant fibers (rope) and 4 animal remains were studied and preserved. The work process includes examination and documentation, chemical tests, examination of surfaces with a digital microscope, biological tests, cleaning, softening, finding parts, cconsolidation and fixing, Retouching, strengthening, removing the label and renumbering and packaging. It has been fixed. Considering the nature of the selected collection, the purpose of working on them has been to identify and discover the final state and introduce them as museum objects rather than the works that previously only had study value by recognizing their use as unique museum objects. protected and displayed. The small number of organic works among the findings of archaeological excavations in Iran increases the importance of the correct and principled preservation of these unique objects.
Hassan Khosravi Khaftari, Hossein Ahmadi , Mohammad Hassan Talebian,
Volume 3, Issue 4 (3-2021)
Abstract
The management planning for the conservation of historical sites is a very complicated matter due to the extent and complexity of the issues of a historical site. Various international charters such as the Bora Charter, the planning models of Marta Demas, Bernard Fielden, Michel Salvian, Michael Pearson and Yuka Yukhelto have provided guidelines in this regard. Additionally, there are standard and more general models for planning a collection; among them, strategic method and the SWOT analysis are notably important. In this research, the following basic questions are raised: What is the importance of planning the management of the conservation of historical sites and what is the appropriate way for formulating such plans? This research is considered a developmental and practical research in terms of its purpose. The method of solving the problem in the form of "hypothetical-deductive" is considered in conducting this research. The theoretical framework of the research is based on three different categories of information including: international charters, global experiences and standard planning models. In the following, information regarding the studied site (the ancient city- site of Istakhr) has been presented. Finally, using the analytical model (SWOT), the main policies for conservation planning of the site, such as determining zone and introducing them to the public and communication with the community has been introduced as the main needs of the site. The main purpose of this article is to introduce the management planning of historical sites as a management tool and a key expertise in the field of cultural heritage conservation.
Reza Hoseini Keshtan ,
Volume 3, Issue 4 (3-2021)
Abstract
The remains consisting of adobe and mud structures extend over an area of 180 hectares, located 3 kilometers south of the current city of "Esfarayen" in North Khorasan, Iran. Archaeological studies of the last two decades, in addition to various cultural findings, have also revealed various architectural structures, which include the historical site of Belqis Esfarayen along with the remains of Narin qale (Military Castle). Given the frequent erosion of adobe due to moisture from limited rainfall in the region during conservation interventions, addressing soil quality characteristics and identifying crystalline structures in erosion processes was the goal of this research. Laboratory studies conducted through physical and chemical tests demonstrated that soil quality is the main cause of clay erosion. This is attributed to a combination of factors: the lack of clay and the high percentage of silica on one hand, and the presence of muscovite and secondary calcite crystal structures on one hand.
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.
Behnoud Goharbin,
Volume 3, Issue 4 (3-2021)
Abstract
Restoration has evolved from humanity's need to repair and reconstruct the objects and structures around them, and it has played various roles throughout history. What we recognize today as the practice and term of scientific restoration in Iran dates back approximately 52 years ago. This was when the first scientific laboratory for restoration was established at the Museum of Ancient Iran, and a few years later, in 1977, experts and professors from the National Organization for Conservation of Antiquities, in collaboration with Farabi University, founded the field of historical artifacts restoration in Isfahan. The first graduates and specialists in restoration were employed by governmental institutions and gradually, the profession became recognized among the cultural and artistic community. However, there was still a long way to go before scientific restoration would be fully accepted as a profession in society. After the Islamic Revolution, along with an expansion of university programs and various branches of restoration studies, there was a marked increase in graduates entering this field. While this created job opportunities within cultural heritage for some individuals. Over time due to various reasons, the cultural heritage sector could not absorb all graduates. As a result, since the late 1990s, unemployment rates within the field of restoration have significantly risen. This article reflects on past experiences within this profession based on numerous accounts from individuals working in related fields of restoration. The aim is to highlight both challenges and opportunities regarding career prospects for restorers working with historical artifacts and objects both now and
into the future.
Mitra Etezadi,
Volume 4, Issue 1 (10-2021)
Abstract
This article explores the professional trajectory and experiences of the author in the field of conservation and restoration of cultural and historical objects. Mitra Ettezadi, a graduate in the restoration of historical artifacts, combines academic knowledge with personal passion to develop innovative methods and approaches for addressing damaged artifacts and mitigating their deterioration. Critiquing the abstract and often impractical approaches found in academic literature, the author emphasizes the importance of practical, hands-on experience. Through a reevaluation of academic training and professional ethics, Ettezadi has shaped a new perspective in the restoration of historical artifacts. The article also highlights the role of visual documentation and practical case studies in restoration education, asserting that the presentation of real-world examples is the most effective teaching method in this field. Reflecting on the history of the restoration discipline in Iran, the author shares her experiences through images and case studies, underscoring the necessity of transforming rigid, dogmatic perspectives and advancing applied knowledge in the restoration of historical artifacts.
