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Showing 4 results for Ilkhanid
Saman Torabi,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (7-2017)
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 .
Negar Kafilli, Fatemeh Alimirzaei, Somayeh Garakhani,
Volume 5, Issue 3 (12-2022)
Volume 5, Issue 3 (12-2022)
Abstract
The protection of historical monuments has two aspects: one that considers the material features, and the other that considers its spiritual, artistic, historical, and aesthetic values. Therefore, the introduction, documentation and recording various historical works, as a part of the conservation and restoration process, not only promote the understanding and recognition of the values of art and culture, but also aid in their protection and revive. This research aims to address this protective need by introducing the collection of tiles of from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Takht-e Soleiman, as one of the valuable collections of Iranian art, known for its antiquity and diversity. To achieve this goal, a descriptive and analytical method was employed along with the examination and collection of field documentation and library studies. As a result of this study, over 5400 tiles were identified, including all kinds of exquisite luster tiles in diverse shapes and patterns, azure, turquoise, gilded tiles with embossed patterns, geometric tiles, samples of monochromatic tiles, and some brick tiles.
Orineb Nazarian , Mohammad Mortezayi , Arman Shishegar , Reza Shabanisamghabadi ,
Volume 8, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Volume 8, Issue 2 (9-2025)
Abstract
Coins are among the most significant archaeological and historical data, which—beyond their economic value-can play a crucial role in resolving historical ambiguities, understanding economic conditions, political structures, and even trade and cultural relations of the studied period. Through systematic analysis, coins also provide precise scientific information regarding production processes and the technological capabilities embedded in their structure. Among these, gold coins hold a special status due to their high material value, durability, and resistance to corrosion.
During the Ilkhanid period-one of the most pivotal historical eras in Iran-this study aims to conduct detailed and systematic field, laboratory, and archaeometric investigations on three selected samples from a collection of 105 gold coins attributed to Sultan Abu Sa'id Bahadur, discovered in the Jameh Mosque of Tabriz and currently housed in the National Museum of Iran. To authenticate the historical identity of the samples, the external surface of the coins was first examined through documentation procedures including weighing, dimensional measurements, and photography. Iconographic and epigraphic readings were conducted to identify minting details and inscriptions. The coins under study date back to the reign of Abu Sa'id Bahadur (716–736 AH), with minting dates ranging from 724 to 729 AH. Weight measurements revealed that the coins deviate from the standard weight norms of the period. Surface analysis showed that the coins fall into the category of geometrically patterned coins. Two samples (Registry Nos. 12530 and 12546) feature common circular and square-in-circle motifs. The third sample (Registry No. 12544) displays an innovative design with a Quranic verse (Surah 2:137) inscribed around the edge, framed in a mihrab-like structure, along with the names of the four Sunni caliphs—emphasizing religious themes. The reverse side features an octagonal geometric pattern filled with Quranic phrases, with inscriptions referring to victory over enemies. Table 1 presents detailed information on the minting location, date, weight, imagery, and design of the three studied coins. In the second phase, elemental analysis was conducted to obtain microstructural and chemical composition data. Given the importance of non-destructive laboratory methods for identifying the elemental structure of coin metals, PIXE (Proton-Induced X-ray Emission) was employed. This powerful technique enables the detection of major and trace elements as well as impurities. PIXE allows for high-resolution analysis of microstructures and is capable of identifying a wide range of elements from sodium to uranium under optimal conditions. However, like XRF, its main limitation is surface -level analysis.
Since impurity levels significantly affect the purity grade of gold coins, the elemental composition of the samples was analyzed, and the results were interpreted based on the concentration of metallic impurities. Statistical analysis focused on purity variations across coins from three different mints. PIXE utilizes micron-scale proton beams for high-precision, multi-elemental analysis. Under suitable conditions, the minimum detectable concentration ranges from 0.01 ppm to 11 ppm. Although PIXE offers deeper analytical penetration (up to several millimeters with high-energy protons), its standard depth (~70 microns) is generally less than that of XRF (~100 microns). Corrosion and sample heterogeneity may introduce uncertainty in elemental analysis, especially in copper or bronze coins.
The three coin samples were analyzed using the accelerator and endograph facilities at the Physics and Accelerator Research Center of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran. The elemental composition of major and minor elements-including Fe, Ni, Cu, Ag, Au, Al, Si, K, Ca, and Ti—was determined with a precision range of 10-100 ppm. Based on the obtained data, the primary microstructure, purity level, and the highest impurity concentrations among the samples were identified. Following the acquisition of analytical data, quantitative analysis of major and minor elements, microstructures, and impurities was performed. Impurity elements were statistically processed using SPSS software through descriptive and inferential methods. To ensure high accuracy, differences in descriptive indices were evaluated using post-hoc tests such as Tukey’s test. The final results are based on impurity concentration data and provide valuable insights into the metallurgical composition and purity of the studied coins.
During the Ilkhanid period-one of the most pivotal historical eras in Iran-this study aims to conduct detailed and systematic field, laboratory, and archaeometric investigations on three selected samples from a collection of 105 gold coins attributed to Sultan Abu Sa'id Bahadur, discovered in the Jameh Mosque of Tabriz and currently housed in the National Museum of Iran. To authenticate the historical identity of the samples, the external surface of the coins was first examined through documentation procedures including weighing, dimensional measurements, and photography. Iconographic and epigraphic readings were conducted to identify minting details and inscriptions. The coins under study date back to the reign of Abu Sa'id Bahadur (716–736 AH), with minting dates ranging from 724 to 729 AH. Weight measurements revealed that the coins deviate from the standard weight norms of the period. Surface analysis showed that the coins fall into the category of geometrically patterned coins. Two samples (Registry Nos. 12530 and 12546) feature common circular and square-in-circle motifs. The third sample (Registry No. 12544) displays an innovative design with a Quranic verse (Surah 2:137) inscribed around the edge, framed in a mihrab-like structure, along with the names of the four Sunni caliphs—emphasizing religious themes. The reverse side features an octagonal geometric pattern filled with Quranic phrases, with inscriptions referring to victory over enemies. Table 1 presents detailed information on the minting location, date, weight, imagery, and design of the three studied coins. In the second phase, elemental analysis was conducted to obtain microstructural and chemical composition data. Given the importance of non-destructive laboratory methods for identifying the elemental structure of coin metals, PIXE (Proton-Induced X-ray Emission) was employed. This powerful technique enables the detection of major and trace elements as well as impurities. PIXE allows for high-resolution analysis of microstructures and is capable of identifying a wide range of elements from sodium to uranium under optimal conditions. However, like XRF, its main limitation is surface -level analysis.
Since impurity levels significantly affect the purity grade of gold coins, the elemental composition of the samples was analyzed, and the results were interpreted based on the concentration of metallic impurities. Statistical analysis focused on purity variations across coins from three different mints. PIXE utilizes micron-scale proton beams for high-precision, multi-elemental analysis. Under suitable conditions, the minimum detectable concentration ranges from 0.01 ppm to 11 ppm. Although PIXE offers deeper analytical penetration (up to several millimeters with high-energy protons), its standard depth (~70 microns) is generally less than that of XRF (~100 microns). Corrosion and sample heterogeneity may introduce uncertainty in elemental analysis, especially in copper or bronze coins.
The three coin samples were analyzed using the accelerator and endograph facilities at the Physics and Accelerator Research Center of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran. The elemental composition of major and minor elements-including Fe, Ni, Cu, Ag, Au, Al, Si, K, Ca, and Ti—was determined with a precision range of 10-100 ppm. Based on the obtained data, the primary microstructure, purity level, and the highest impurity concentrations among the samples were identified. Following the acquisition of analytical data, quantitative analysis of major and minor elements, microstructures, and impurities was performed. Impurity elements were statistically processed using SPSS software through descriptive and inferential methods. To ensure high accuracy, differences in descriptive indices were evaluated using post-hoc tests such as Tukey’s test. The final results are based on impurity concentration data and provide valuable insights into the metallurgical composition and purity of the studied coins.
Masoud Bater, Mahbobeh Rastin ,
Volume 8, Issue 3 (11-2025)
Volume 8, Issue 3 (11-2025)
Abstract
The stucco inscription of Aq Qaleh Mosque in Neqab, Sabzevar, represents one of the most significant Ilkhanid architectural ornaments in eastern Iran, distinguished by its artistic, historical, and technological value. This study aims to identify the construction and execution techniques, diagnose patterns of deterioration, conduct laboratory analyses, and develop a scientifically grounded approach for the conservation and restoration of the inscription. Initially, field surveys and imaging techniques were employed to document the overall condition of the monument, including its structural characteristics, paint layers, stucco carving, and decorative elements. Subsequently, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyses were performed to determine the mineralogical structure and chemical composition of the pigments, indicating the use of natural mineral colorants such as red ochre and ultramarine. The diagnostic phase identified multiple deterioration factors, including damage caused by moisture, thermal fluctuations, structural stresses, chemical and biological agents, and inappropriate earlier interventions. Based on these findings, the restoration process comprised cleaning, consolidation, reconstruction of missing decorative and inscriptional elements, chromatic reintegration, and final stabilization, all carried out in accordance with the principles of reversibility, Limited intervention and compatibility in appearance. In addition, a set of preventive conservation measures aimed at ensuring preservation for an extended period was proposed, encompassing environmental control, the installation of protective barriers, staff training, and the mitigation of structural moisture. What distinguishes this research from previous studies on Ilkhanid stucco conservation is the integrated application of advanced laboratory analyses and in situ diagnostic investigations to develop a coherent, tailored conservation framework for polychrome stucco inscriptions, an approach that has not been systematically articulated within previous studies of eastern Iranian architectural ornamentation.
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