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Davoud Agha-Aligol, Parvin Oliaiy, Mahmoud Moradi, Mohammad Lamehi-Rachti,
Volume 1, Issue 1 (4-2017)
Abstract

In investigation of production technology and provenance studies of historical objects as well as to propose and develop strategies for restoring and conservation, it is necessary to get information about studied samples. This information is different according to the type and kind of materials of historical objects.
Today, identify and accurately determine the elemental composition and constituent material of given sample is one of this essential information that be able to measure using modern laboratory instruments In this paper, was presented some results was obtained in past few years from different historical and cultural objects using micro ion beam analysis in Van de Graaff laboratory of Nuclear Science and Technology Research Institute.
Investigation of Painted enameled potteries to determine the different pigments used in, determine the thickness and purity of the gold layer in gilded enameled potteries, determine the responsible elements to brightness of wall painting in a historical place, Investigate the causes of corrosion and degradation of an old manuscript, determine purity of Elymais bronze coins and determine the type of Iranian historical and ancient glasses are some studied objects that will be presented in this paper.
The results of these analysis will significantly help to investigate the production technology, to determine the authenticity of the samples and finally to use in restoration of these historical objects.

Omid Oudbashi,
Volume 1, Issue 1 (4-2017)
Abstract

Recently risk assessment and management in cultural-historical collections is one of the important subjects in the field of preventive conservation research. Different methods and aspects of are used and studied in the field of risk assessment in archaeological sites and collections and significant results are achieved and published in last decades. One of the types of archaeological collections is metal collections that may be found in archaeological excavations. In this paper, application of risk assessment approach is investigated to estimate conservation condition in archaeological bronze collection. This approach is concentrated on occurrence of active corrosion (bronze disease) and factors influencing it during burial time and post-excavation period. Thus, the results of analyses based on an analytical system is considered that is performed previously (Metal-Environment-Corrosion system) including identification of soil environment, characterization of corrosion mechanism and their effect on conservation condition in bronze objects. For this purpose, two bronze collections are studied that are discovered from Haft Tappeh and Sangtarashan sites from Iran. The condition of two collections is assessed consisting of identification of risks and deterioration factors influencing bronze objects during excavation operation as well as post-excavation preservation and risk assessment based on occurrence of active corrosion in the collections. Finally, conservation condition and excavation procedure and preservation of the collections are estimated and analyzed based on the corrosion mechanism occurred in the objects and results of risk assessment in soil and museum environments.

Nima Nezafati, Morteza Hessari,
Volume 1, Issue 1 (4-2017)
Abstract

The East Chia Sabz site is located at the bank of the Seymareh river in the middle of Zagros Mountain chain. The site is among the few collections of the Acramic Neolithic sites of eighth millenium BCE of Zagros which was archaeologically investigated during the rescue archaeological studies of the Seymareh dam. Numerous bullet-shaped core stones were unearhted during the archaeological excavation of the site, from which some were investigated using XRD analysis. According to the results, most of the lithic artifacts demonstrate a similar mineralogy and it seems that they had been provided from a local source. In this regard, the silisic cobbles of the Amiran Formation that are also available from the river beds could have been a significant source.

Manijeh Hadian Dehkordi, Rasoul Vatandoost, Christoph Herm, Stefan Simon,
Volume 1, Issue 1 (4-2017)
Abstract

The dangers posed by O3to historical properties and art works, as well as limited accessibility and inapplicable instrumental methods for measuring O3concentrationhave made it much more necessary to use low tech and inexpensive methods for this purpose in almost all museum environments. On the other hand, elastomers are known as polymers with high reactivity to ozone and latex as a natural elastomer is the most sensitive one to this gaseous pollutant. Hence this polymer has been considered as an ozone dosimeter.
In this scientific investigation, in order to attain the ozone dosimeter, the effect of this gas on the latex strips prepared in artificial condition was studied. For this purpose an aging chamber equipped with ozone generator was used. Since the oxidation of latex strips can also occur as a result of UV radiations, in order to study and compare the process with Ozone gas, testing samples were aged using UV lamps of 254 and 366 nm wavelengths.  All the examinations were carried out at 24 oC and 40% RH. The aged and intact latex strips were studied by means of ATR-FT-IR and digital microscope.
The results demonstrate the diverse and discernible oxidizing effects of O3 and UV radiations on latex. Furthermore, it is possible to estimate the concentration of ozone in the environment by the calibration of latex strips. The verification of the results obtained by latex dosimeters in museum environments was carried out by Ozone sensor over a day, confirming the results acquired.

Yasin Sedghi, Mohammadamin Emami, Nasir Eskandri Damaneh,
Volume 1, Issue 1 (6-2018)
Abstract

This study aims to examine seven pottery sherds attributed to the Aliabad cultural horizon (4th millennium BCE) from the Mokhtarabad site in Shahdad, southeastern Iran. The research focuses on analyzing their structural and mineralogical similarities and differences, identifying the raw and temper materials used, and ultimately determining the origin and manufacturing techniques. Thin-section petrography and X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods were employed for this purpose. All samples exhibit similar petrographic fabrics characterized by fine-grained homogeneous clay matrices. Mineralogically, the pottery contains similar inclusions such as angular quartz grains, plagioclase with polysynthetic twinning, feldspar, fine-grained muscovite, as well as carbonate and calcareous particles. The shared mineralogical features suggest a common source, and comparison with the local geological outcrops supports the conclusion of a regional and indigenous origin for the raw materials used‏.‏

Zari Khedmati,
Volume 1, Issue 1 (6-2018)
Abstract

Numerous challenges exist regarding the balance and interaction between the tangible needs of cultural heritage and the contemporary and future demands of societies. In the past, each of these domains functioned within separate management systems, following their own organizational paths. Today, however, addressing shared challenges and needs requires the integration of systems and the development of a comprehensive management framework that safeguards cultural heritage—as a testimony of our history and identity—while aligning with present societal requirements and future-oriented urban development. This integration aims to expand political, cultural, social, and economic dimensions within a shared benefit framework. Governments today, with a comprehensive view of cultural heritage as a public common good, are striving to protect heritage and prevent its neglect and disappearance. Consequently, there is a growing need for harmonizing management systems and adopting an integrated heritage management model within institutional structures. The interdependence and convergence of heritage preservation and heritage tourism have led to the emergence of the integrated heritage management approach within the heritage management field, ultimately contributing to the sustainability and development of both heritage and society. In Iran, the concept of integrating management systems remains unfamiliar and has caused significant damage to cultural heritage. Learning from global management experiences and understanding the local context for adapting such approaches can effectively support heritage conservation efforts. This article, using a descriptive-analytical method based on document and literature studies, aims to introduce and emphasize the necessity of an integrated management approach to heritage systems. The objective is to highlight the impact of integrated management on the safeguarding of cultural heritage.

Kaveh Bahramzadeh, Davoud Asadollahvash Aali, Najmeh Khatoun Miri,
Volume 1, Issue 1 (6-2018)
Abstract

Haj Saleh Bathhouse, located in the historical fabric of Saqqez city, dates back to the Zand period. Its entrance is situated in the city's traditional bazaar. The construction style of the building is Isfahani and features unique stucco decorations. One of the notable and significant stucco reliefs in the bathhouse is the hunting scene, which has undergone extensive deterioration. This relief consists of three layers: two lime-based layers and one paint layer.
In this study, through laboratory examination, the materials used in the stratigraphy of the relief were technically identified. Subsequently, the deterioration patterns affecting the artwork were analyzed. The conservation and restoration process of the hunting scene is also detailed: following mechanical and chemical cleaning, delaminated areas were consolidated using an injection method. A slurry made from dental gypsum combined with 5% Plextol in water was injected with the aid of a pillow (bladder) technique to reattach and strengthen the lifted layers.

The missing parts were reconstructed using a mixture of gypsum and 5% Plextol, followed by chromatic reintegration with watercolors to match the surrounding areas and faded pigments. Finally, the entire artwork underwent final consolidation using 5% Plextol solution.

Tahereh Shishehbori, Hossein Ahmadi,
Volume 1, Issue 1 (6-2018)
Abstract

Among the artistic and historical works of the Islamic era, architectural inscriptions hold a special place due to their connection with architectural spaces, and they have consistently garnered the attention of specialists and experts. These valuable works, created using various materials, are inevitably subject to damage over time. The protection and restoration of inscriptions have long been a significant concern within the conservation community. Despite numerous conferences, congresses, and the development of various principles and theories in the field of restoration, comprehensive guidelines for this valuable category of written works remain elusive. This gap has led to confusion and the application of inconsistent methods in addressing these works. In this research, the focus is on the restorations carried out on the inscriptions of several buildings in the historic city of Yazd. Specifically, the study examines how the principles of restoration and their theoretical foundations have been applied in the conservation of these inscriptions. Given the prominence of calligraphy and handwriting in these works, the existing principles can serve as a valuable framework for their restoration. The findings of this research indicate that the absence of clear criteria and comprehensive principles for the restoration of such works has caused confusion within the conservation community. As a result, some restorations have been carried out based on subjective preferences or, at times, incorrect methods. This study employs an analytical research method, drawing on library sources and field studies to investigate the topic.

Najmeh Khatoun Miri, Elham Heydari-Karbaski ,
Volume 1, Issue 1 (6-2018)
Abstract

Shahr-i Sokhta in Sistan is one of the most significant and pivotal archaeological sites in southeastern Iran, with initial settlement dating back to the Bronze Age (3200 BCE). The site spans an area of approximately 151 hectares, of which 120 hectares contain material and cultural remains. It consists of three major parts: the central area, the industrial zone, and the cemetery. Excavation results indicate four cultural-occupational phases (I–IV), which are further subdivided into eleven sub-phases. Pottery, being the most abundant cultural-historical artifact found across many archaeological sites in southeastern Iran, including Shahr-i Sokhta, holds considerable importance in archaeological studies. It is the only category of ancient object that has survived through millennia with minimal alteration. Archaeologists believe that most of the pottery discovered at Shahr-i Sokhta was produced locally, either within the site or in satellite workshop areas. To evaluate this hypothesis, the present study employed laboratory methods, including petrographic thin section analysis using a polarizing microscope (OPM) and X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRPD), on three buff pottery samples recovered from grave no. 8525 NFB at the site. The analytical results, when compared with the local geology, indicate that the buff pottery from this site is of local origin. Furthermore, based on structural analysis and the presence of calcite grains, a firing temperature of approximately 800°C is suggested for some samples, while others likely underwent firing at around 900°C.

Mostafa Karimi Fard, Mehdi Razani,
Volume 1, Issue 1 (6-2018)
Abstract

Stucco work (gachbori) is one of the most prominent and sophisticated traditional arts of Iran, which has historically been executed using a variety of technical methods. Due to the inherent fragility of gypsum and the impact of both environmental and human factors that contribute to the deterioration of historic plasterworks, the conservation and restoration of these elements—particularly through the revival of forgotten or seldom-used techniques—are essential for preserving and transmitting cultural heritage to future generations.
One such technique is the creation of openwork stucco decorations, which are freestanding ornaments executed in a pierced style without a backing layer. This method is especially prevalent in the central regions of Iran, notably in the historic houses of Kashan, where lattice windows (rozans) filled with colored glass are a distinguishing feature. From a technical standpoint, the decorative work is carried out by applying gypsum over a temporary support; once the support is removed, the cut-out patterns are completed from the rear with stained glass.


This article presents a detailed account of the reconstruction and restoration process of one such gypsum lattice window in the Abbasi House of Kashan. Through a practical and field-based approach, the authors replicate and document the historical construction techniques and restoration steps involved in reviving this architectural ornament, offering insights into the craftsmanship and methodology behind these delicate works.

Mohammad Mortazavi, Ahmad Salehi Kakhki , Mohammad Ali Golozar , Hassan Tala’i ,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (7-2017)
Abstract

One of the most widely used terms in the conservation and restoration of cultural and historical artifacts, particularly in the field of ancient metal objects, is patina. Although, this term is also applied to other historical materials, such as paintings and stones, its frequent used in the context of ancient bronzes makes it essential to develop a clear and accurate understanding of its meaning and implications. From the perspective of the studying deterioration of the artifacts, patina-as corrosion products in bronze artifacts-can significantly impact both the tangible and intangible aspects of the objects. on the one hand, it contributes certain values, such as age and aesthetics. On the other hand, it serves as an important criterion in conservation and restoration practices. However, the lack of comprehensive and precise definition of this term leads to complexity in conservation decision-making. In this paper, based on a literature review, the differing and similarity viewpoints on patina have been investigated. Following this, the term is reviewed in relation to different corrosion morphologies, and issue related to its current definitions are discussed. The different values of the patina are debated, and its role in the principles of conservation is reevaluated. In this field, confusion arising from the application of the term patina in the conservation of archaeological bronzes have been highlighted. Finally, considering the unique properties of corrosion phenomena in archaeological bronzes, the concept of the “original surface” is discussed as an approach to addressing this issue.  

Saman Torabi,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (7-2017)
Abstract

The study and examination of Iranian wall paintings, given their historical significance and visual-artistic value, have consistently attracted the attention of researchers and art historians. When the topic of Iranian painting is raised, images found in manuscripts and albums often come to mind. However, it should not be overlooked that Iranian artists have long been active in various fields of visual and decorative arts. Evidence suggests that the art of wall painting predates the tradition of book illustration by a considerable margin. In ancient times, wall painting held the greatest prominence among various forms of visual arts. Nevertheless, during the four centuries of Mongol rule over Iran, its significance diminished substantially in comparison to book illustration. It was not until the Safavid period that this visual art form regained attention, with examples of it observable in the royal palaces preserved from that era. As noted, during the Mongol period, the importance of wall paintings significantly declined compared to book illustration, and despite the presence of valuable miniature paintings, few wall paintings from this period have survived. The paintings in the Chelleh-Khaneh of the Pir-e Bakran Shrine are among the rare surviving pictorial examples from this era, featuring designs and motifs closely resembling the miniatures of the schools of that period. They also exhibit notable differences from Safavid wall paintings in terms of composition, the colors used, and the design of motifs. Therefore, in addition to studying the visual elements and comparing them with the surviving miniatures from this period, it is essential to investigate the technical aspects, execution methods, and materials used in this valuable historical and artistic work. This article endeavors, within the limits of available resources, to enhance understanding of the work through comparative-historical and technological studies. To this end, laboratory methods were employed to analyze the types of colors used in the work and the techniques of their application. However, due to limitations in sampling from this highly exquisite and unique piece, the study of the materials and substances used in the execution of its decorations remains incomplete, with shortcomings that are hoped to be addressed in future stages of research and investigation .

Saole Shadkam, Alireza Ravabi,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (7-2017)
Abstract

The conservation and restoration of historical and cultural artifacts in Iran are increasingly recognized as important fields of study. Among these, the conservation and restoration of wooden artifacts remain underexplored. The treatment of artifacts damaged by mechanical, chemical, and biological factors must be informed by prior studies to minimize the effects of these destructive influences. The Jameh (gathering) Mosque of Gorgan, a significant historical building from the Islamic era, contains many valuable decorations and artifacts, including its distinguished wooden pulpit (minbar). This pulpit, based on surviving documents, is believed to date back to the Timurid period and features intricate lattice work (gereh-chini) and wood carving (monabbat-kari), which greatly enhance its historical significance.  The main objectives of this research are to understand the construction techniques used for the mosque's pulpit and to analyze the physical and chemical composition of the materials employed. To achieve these objectives, methodologies including documentation, microscopic examinations, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis were utilized.

Hamed Yonesi, Bahare Yonesi,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (7-2017)
Abstract

Musical instruments, as an integral part of cultural and historical heritage, possess not only artistic and aesthetic values but also significant scientific, technical, and musical aspects. Due to the per formative nature of music, musical instruments are susceptible to wear and deterioration, presenting unique challenges for their preservation and restoration. Unlike many historical artifacts that are restored solely to preserve their physical structure and prevent decay, the restoration of musical instruments must consider the aesthetic sonic concepts of the work in addition to preserving its cultural and historical identity. Any intervention in these instruments should be carried out in a way that does not negatively affect their sonic and structural authenticity. In some cases, due to the high sensitivity of historical instruments and the potential for physical damage during studies and investigations, researchers have resorted to reproducing similar examples. This requires precise knowledge of the organ logy of the instruments and their construction techniques in different historical periods. In this research, the historical introduction and classification of instruments are presented first, and then the structural characteristics of each group are examined. Subsequently, study strategies appropriate to the characteristics of each historical group are provided, and the theoretical foundations for the preservation and restoration of musical instruments are developed. The results of this research show that the restoration process of historical instruments, due to their structural and acoustic diversity, requires different approaches and a deep awareness of the physical and sonic characteristics of each instrument. Therefore, restorers must have a comprehensive understanding of the acoustic dimensions and materials of the instruments before any intervention to strike a balance between physical preservation, sonic reproduction, and the preservation of cultural authenticity.

Hamidreza Bakhshandeh-Fard,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (7-2017)
Abstract

Conservation science is an interdisciplinary field that largely owes its foundation to other sciences. Among these sciences, electrochemical methods can be mentioned. Electrochemical methods play an important role in various aspects of the conservation and restoration of historical objects. Briefly, the application scope of electrochemical methods in conservation and restoration can be divided into: identification and investigation of constituent materials in historical artifacts, restoration and cleaning methods, and environmental condition assessments in museum display areas and storage facilities of historical objects. Identification and Investigation of Constituent Materials: Identifying the components of artistic and archaeological artifacts is an important matter in scientific investigations. Some of these objects are composite. Additionally, some objects are heterogeneous while others are homogeneous, and some are accompanied by considerable amounts of other materials, such as binding media, paints, pigments, etc. At first glance, it may seem that electrochemical methods could perform this task without causing damage to the artifact. However, further investigations in this area are required. Restoration and Cleaning Methods: Electrochemistry has been used for over a century in the treatment of historical metal objects. These methods can be employed in artifact treatment; perhaps their ideal capability would be reversing the corrosion process in ionic compounds. However, in applying these methods, depending on the condition of the artifact, treatment priorities may lean toward strengthening, stabilization, or cleaning of the historical artifact. Environmental Condition Assessments: Scientists and researchers are continuously investigating and evaluating harmful conditions in museum environments. This is because pollutants, even in very small quantities, can be one of the most important factors in the deterioration of historical artifacts, and their detection and identification are often inaccessible due to high sensitivity and cost. Moreover, conventional methods lead to the identification of pollutants at low concentrations (one part per billion), but it is difficult to determine their damage potential. This is because the synergistic effects (Synergy) and additive effects of these compounds when mixed together, as well as their surface effects on historical objects, cannot be accurately calculated. Can electrochemical methods be used as a measurement tool for investigating museum conditions? This paper generally addresses the role, importance, strengths, and weaknesses of electrochemical methods in the aforementioned areas within the field of conservation and restoration of historical objects. The aim of this paper is to present a new approach to the application of electrochemical methods and their advantages and disadvantages in the restoration and conservation of historical artifacts.

Narguess Afzalipour,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (7-2017)
Abstract

Parchment, typically derived from the skin of goats, sheep, or deer, is a common material for handwritten treasures and various artistic artifacts. It is composed of collagen, some keratin, elastin, and very small amounts of albumin and globulin. Generally, leather is not a single material but rather a group of related materials with many common characteristics. Products made from skin, such as rawhide (untanned), parchment, fur, leather, and others, share many of these properties. Given the sensitivity of these objects, it is essential to conduct tolerance and solubility tests on the parchment, adhesives used in the binding and old repairs, ink, and pigments with respect to solvents used for cleaning, stain removal, and removal of old repairs and additions before commencing parchment conservation and restoration. This is because all materials used may have a specific impact on its structure. In the present study, the structural studies of skin and the manufacturing method of parchment are investigated. Damages and damaging agents have been studied, and softeners, adhesives, and consolidants used have been reviewed based on available resources. An attempt has been made to compile methods of parchment restoration and reconstruction based on the latest available techniques in this field. It is hoped that the initiation of research such as this article will pave the way for broader and more comprehensive research in this direction.

Sahar Borhan, Shahrzad Amin-Shirazi , Mahboubeh Bihgam,
Volume 1, Issue 3 (1-2019)
Abstract

The conservation and restoration of artifacts, including textiles, depends on understanding the characteristics and properties of the artifact. By increasing information about the artifact, decisions can be made with greater confidence and certainty about how to handle and preserve the artifacts. Fibers, as the main constituent of textiles, are an important part of the study of historical textiles, and answering the questions raised in the field of fiber technology and pathology can pave the way for the next steps in the conservation of a historical textile. The more and more accurate the information obtained in this field, the more accurate and reliable the conservation measures will be. In the study of fibers, a large part of the information is obtained using various laboratory methods and instrumental analysis and examining the surface and structure of the artifact. The diversity and multiplicity of these methods have made recognizing the advantages and limitations of each of these methods a key factor in study planning and experimental design. In this study, a woven flag belonging to the Onchi Meydan neighborhood in Ardabil city was subjected to laboratory studies. Despite the large number and diversity of samples, the identification of the fibers of this flag was carried out using flame and microscopic examination methods.

Shahnaz Bohlouli , Mohammad Ghahri ,
Volume 1, Issue 3 (1-2019)
Abstract

The manuscripts kept in the manuscript archive of the National Archives and Library of Iran are mostly unique and have special historical and cultural importance. One of the main reasons for the deterioration of manuscripts and books is biological factors, mainly microscopic fungi. The method used in the National Archives and Library of Iran to eliminate biological contamination is disinfection with ethylene oxide. The duration of the disinfecting effects of ethylene oxide gas has always been one of the concerns of this organization and is the aim of this research, during which the disinfecting effect of the mentioned substance has been investigated over a period of 4 years. 107 samples were examined by scraping and culturing in a specific fungal culture medium, and the relationship between their type of contamination with the environmental conditions of storage and the contamination of the manuscripts before disinfection has been discussed. The results showed that although 86.67% of the samples still showed contamination and only 13.43% remained free of contamination, this contamination was different from their initial contamination. Therefore, disinfection with ethylene oxide over a period of 4 years had a good effect because the initial contamination was eliminated and did not grow again after this period of time, and the observed contamination was of the type of environmental contamination that was added to the documents.

Maryam Maryam Abdolmaleki,
Volume 1, Issue 3 (1-2019)
Abstract

Environmental pests are one of the most important risk factors in museums, museum buildings, archives and libraries around the world. Although these pests do not have a wide range, if they are present in the environment, the amount of damage they cause to material heritage will be very significant. Prevention and control of these pests is one of the tasks of the Comprehensive Pest Management Program, which has replaced traditional pest control methods in museums. This is an emerging, multifaceted and holistic strategic program in the field of preventive conservation that provides the conservator with a variety of treatment methods and considers the use of pesticides only as a last resort. Given the importance of being aware of the strategies of this program, this article provides a brief overview of all treatment strategies. Since the type of pest and the type of museum artifact are very important in determining the treatment method, a more detailed classification of their types is provided, including separation based on the degree of impact on the type of pest (insects and microorganisms) and applicability with respect to the materials used and the technique of making the artifacts.

Parastoo Erfanmanesh, Hamid Fadaei,
Volume 1, Issue 3 (1-2019)
Abstract

One of the most widely used terms in the conservation and restoration of cultural and historical artifacts, particularly in the field of ancient metal objects, is patina. Although, this term is also applied to other historical materials, such as paintings and stones, its frequent used in the context of ancient bronzes makes it essential to develop a clear and accurate understanding of its meaning and implications. From the perspective of the studying deterioration of the artifacts, patina-as corrosion products in bronze artifacts-can significantly impact both the tangible and intangible aspects of the objects. on the one hand, it contributes certain values, such as age and aesthetics. On the other hand, it serves as an important criterion in conservation and restoration practices. However, the lack of comprehensive and precise definition of this term leads to complexity in conservation decision-making. In this paper, based on a literature review, the differing and similarity viewpoints on patina have been investigated. Following this, the term is reviewed in relation to different corrosion morphologies, and issue related to its current definitions are discussed. The different values of the patina are debated, and its role in the principles of conservation is reevaluated. In this field, confusion arising from the application of the term patina in the conservation of archaeological bronzes have been highlighted. Finally, considering the unique properties of corrosion phenomena in archaeological bronzes, the concept of the “original surface” is discussed as an approach to addressing this issue.  


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