Showing 22 results for Conservation and Restoration
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.
Najme Khatoon Miri , Kaveh Bahramzadeh, Davood Asadolahvash ,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (10-2017)
Abstract
The Haj Saleh Bathhouse, dating back to the Zand period, is located in the old part of Saqqez city, and its entrance is located in the city's daily market. The bathhouse is built in the Isfahan style and has unique Lime stuccowork decorations. The hunting ground motif is one of the beautiful and important Lime stuccowork motifs in this building, which has suffered a lot of damage and consists of three layers, including two layers of lime and one layer of paint. In this research, the technical identification of the materials used in the aforementioned lime layers was investigated through laboratory studies, and then the damage to the decorations was examined. The following describes the conservation and restoration operations of the hunting ground motif. At this stage, after cleaning by mechanical methods, the detached parts were attached to the support surface by injecting a mixture of gypsum slurry (dental) and 5% Plextol in water, using the cushion method, and were strengthened. Subsequently, the missing parts were restored using a mixture of plaster and 5% Plextol, and the restored parts and discoloration were balanced with watercolor. Finally, the entire surfaces were stabilized with 5% Plextol.
Atefeh Sadat Sadr , Mehrnaz Azadi Boyaghchi, Niusha Momeni ,
Volume 1, Issue 3 (10-2017)
Abstract
Historical and cultural relics made of paper are among the most important artifacts of any culture and civilization and are valuable from a historical, artistic, scientific, economic, technical, and religious perspective. All paper materials change over time, so that this process cannot be completely stopped, but the speed of change can be controlled with conservation and restoration operations.
The manuscript studied in this research is a manuscript document belonging to the year 1287 AH, and the Qajar period.
The purpose of this research is to examine the used materials, pathology and finally to present a restoration plan for this manuscript. In this regard, after examining library resources, the fibers, glue, and materials used in the document were identified using laboratory studies, the type of ink used, and other tests for this document. Tests showed that the fibers of the document are wood and the sample contains a small amount of lignin, and the presence of starch and sugars was confirmed in the paste test. The acidity of the paper is 45.5 and the ink used in the document is of the metal-mazonite type and is sensitive to water. After completing the restoration stages of the document, the document was delivered to its owner.
Mozhgan Mousazadeh,
Volume 1, Issue 4 (3-2019)
Abstract
Modern management has increasingly attracted the attention of executive and organizational systems in recent decades. The application of its key components, such as systems thinking, contingency decision-making, the importance of leadership and effectiveness, goal and strategy setting, motivation, and self-regulation, constitutes part of the success factors for today’s human resource managers.
Preservation, restoration, and protection of historical buildings are among the fundamental objectives in the field of cultural heritage. This descriptive–survey study, conducted through a qualitative–analytical method and based on the author’s field experience in supervising 25 projects on the conservation, restoration, and documentation of architectural decorations in historical buildings across Khorasan Razavi province between 2007 and 2016, demonstrates that restoration teams are often composed of academic experts, traditional craftsmen, or a blend of related competencies, each possessing a unique insight and professional commitment to the authenticity of the buildings.
Managers who identify the most qualified individuals and adopt a participatory management approach not only achieve better outcomes in the given projects but also ensure job satisfaction, productivity, synergy, and the professional growth of their teams. Furthermore, they establish sustainable career paths and create opportunities to train and nurture skilled groups for future specialized projects.
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.
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.
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.
Hamzeh Hamzeh, Fahimeh Yousefi ,
Volume 4, Issue 1 (10-2021)
Abstract
The coffeehouse painting of the Ashura Tribulation, belonging to the Hosseinieh Kabbabi Endowment, is particularly popular among the people
of Birjand as one of the manifestations of Ashura culture. This work was commissioned based on an existing inscription by Agha Mirza Mashallah
Tehrani, who was one of the pioneers of coffeehouse painting in Iran, and was created by one of his students, Mohammad Hossein, in 1338
(A.H.), probably in Yazd. This article presents the authors' conservation and restoration experiences on the coffeehouse painting of the Ashura
Tribulation, which dates back to the late Qajar period and is exhibited in one of the old Hosseiniehs of Birjand in the first decade of Muharram.
The first step in the conservation and restoration of this work was the accurate identification of the damages, the most important of which in
this particular work is related to the damages caused by wear and tear and repeated installation of the work. After identifying the damage to
the work, appropriate conservation and restoration measures were taken, the first step being its cleaning, which was carried out in two stages. In the first stage, dust was removed. A vacuum cleaner with a soft brush and a thin mesh was used to remove dust to prevent damage to the work during sweeping. In the second stage, stains were cleaned. Inappropriate restorations were then removed, and after repairing the tears and defects, the work was strengthened to make it more stable. Conservation operations for the work included protection during display and the construction of a storage container and packaging of the work. By carrying out conservation and restoration measures, the coffeehouse painting of the Ashura tragedy of the Husseiniyeh Kabbabi was protected from further damage and its visual quality was significantly increased. This painting is kept in a designed container and will be exhibited in the first decade of Muharram at the Husseiniyeh Kabbabi location.
Mozhgan Mousazadeh,
Volume 4, Issue 2 (11-2021)
Abstract
The architectural decorations used in historical buildings are among the most prominent distinguishing features and reliable criteria for identifying and understanding the style, period, identity, and architectural characteristics of each era. It appears that the execution framework, style, and construction materials of historical buildings and their architectural decorations have had a direct or indirect relationship with factors such as invasions, the dominance and maturation of styles and tastes, the duration of historical periods, the exercise of power, perspectives, and shifts in attitudes over time. This report is based on case studies and library research conducted by the author on the restoration efforts and supervision of the architectural decorations of the Timurid-era mausoleum of Qotb al-Din Haydar from 2011 to 2023. These studies raised significant questions regarding the historical background, diversity of styles and materials used in the building's foundation, as well as the number and variety of decorative layers. The allocation of funding and meticulous examination for the preparation of the executive action plan for conservation and restoration in 2023 provided a valuable opportunity to analyze and identify components of the tangible and intangible heritage of the architecture and architectural decorations. These components included variables such as the discovery of diverse underlying decorative layers during executive actions, intricacy, color schemes, symbols, motifs, signs, styles, inscriptions, and written documentation. These elements were intertwined with the overall complex of Qotb al-Din Haydar's mausoleum, the architecture of the mosque, caravanserai, surrounding area, the mystical persona of Qotb al-Din Haydar, and civic devotion. The process of executive actions and the details of the action plan were modified and enhanced in such a way that the necessity of analyzing hidden aspects, preventive conservation, and the presentation and display of architectural and decorative evidence in the form of a museum titled "From Architecture to Decorations" was proposed and deemed feasible. This museum could serve as an effective step toward preserving and showcasing this valuable heritage.
Niayesh Khaksar-Baghan, Yaser Hamzavi, Mojgan Mousazadeh,
Volume 4, Issue 2 (11-2021)
Abstract
Nishabur city, located in Razavi Khorasan, is one of the oldest cities in Iran, which contains various historical sites, including Shadiakh. In 2003, during archaeological excavations, a large number of gypsum-based ornaments were found in this area. One of the most important parts of this historical site is known as Public Hall. This hall consists of four porches overlooking an octagonal space in the middle, which leads to the adjacent spaces through four doors and four corners. These five pieces discussed in the current research also belong to the public hall part of this collection. This research is organized with the aim of finding the most suitable method of conservation and restoration of these valuable ornaments. The main damages on these pieces include deep cracks, surface contamination such as dust, dirt, spider webs, unprincipled repairs during excavation, missing parts, deep holes, scratches, and etc. In the following article, after examining the appearance and stating the damages on the parts, the intervention ethics are discussed and restoration procedures were carried out. These procedures include mechanical and chemical cleaning using bistoury and distilled water, stabilization using 5% Plextol in ethanol, consolidating cracks and deep holes using textile paste, testing the color of gypsum mortar and finally using Gypsum mortar to cover the cracks and bricks of the support.
Monina Meyhami , Danial Harandi,
Volume 4, Issue 3 (12-2021)
Abstract
Photographs are significant documents for visual recovery of past cultures and civilizations in contemporary history. Structural changes in historical photographs, influenced by various factors over time, lead to numerous damages that may result in aesthetic alterations. Accordingly, this report aims to present the conservation process undertaken on three photographs dating back to the Qajar era. The photographs suffered from damage such as dirt and water stains, degradation of the gelatin layer, tears, and high acidity. To address these issues, distilled water, alcohol, and acetone were used to clean the surface contaminants. Additionally, calcium hydroxide was applied in two forms: dry and in the distilled water, for deacidification of the cardboard substrate. Acid-free cardboard and specially treated tissue paper were also used to cover for the missing parts, along with Klucel-G polymer. Finally, to ensure better protection, all photographs, they were mounted in passe-partout boards.
Sana Kazemzad Bagha, Mahdi Razani,
Volume 5, Issue 1 (3-2022)
Abstract
The following article aims to conserve and restore a part of the rock door and stone tower of the Pasargad World Heritage Site. The rock piece belongs to the right wing of the stone tower and is decorated with six lotus flowers. This object had much damage that caused the preservation and protection of the work to problems such as fracture and lack of integrity. Therefore, the restoration practice started on the stone piece. The best intervention method is selected after the historical, physical, and chemical knowledge of the effect. In this regard, studies have been conducted in the field of knowing and investigating the political history, architecture, nature, and use of the rock tower, and instrumental analyses such as petrography, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF) have been performed to identify the physical and chemical dimension of the object. The results show that the work belonged to the stone tower and was probably built during the reign of Darius. The rock used to build the artefact is dolomitic limestone. Finally, with the help of the mentioned analyses and according to the restoration principles of restoration, practical procedure, and preventive conservation were carried out on the stone piece. Finally, the work was placed inside a frame made of Teflon sheet for display so that the work has both visual integrity and can be reversed for future restorations.
Fatemeh Alimirzaei , Nilofar Chalabi ,
Volume 5, Issue 2 (9-2022)
Abstract
Due to the instability and sometimes sensitivity of archaeological objects, conservation and restoration of them usually require a complex procedure along with basic studies and pathology in the restoration process. Since pottery objects are more stable than other objects, they can be restored after preliminary investigation regarding the level of strength and hardness of surface sediments, if there is no special problem. In this report, we introduce and describe the conservation and restoration process of a number of Zanjan salt men collection pottery, transferred from the Zulfiqari Museum of Zanjan to the pottery department of the Research Center for Conservation of Cultural Relics for conservation and restoration operations. These objects, which were sometimes cleaned and temporarily patched at the excavation site, were thoroughly checked and all connections were opened. The parts were cleaned separately using various mechanical and chemical methods and after finding the correct parts, the connection was made again. Finally, the parts that needed to be reconstructed were reconstructed with plaster following the pattern designed for this collection and considering the basics of restoration.
Ahmad Shakery,
Volume 5, Issue 2 (9-2022)
Abstract
The Tepe Silveh site is one of the ancient sites in the Piranshahr region. During excavations conducted in 2015, several terracotta pots were uncovered. The purpose of this project is to restore and protect two terracotta artifacts belonging to this site, This project is therefore of great importance Silweh hill has been completely destroyed in the exploitation plan of Silweh dam and these pottery are the only remaining information from this ancient site. The project aims to prevent further damage to these artifacts in the future by adopting the most appropriate conservation methods.These pottery pieces were found in a very poor and unstable condition, and immediate strengthening was among the most essential initial measures. After conducting the necessary comparative historical studies, efforts were made to adopt the most efficient intervention methods. These pottery were found in a very disorderly and unstable condition, and immediate strengthening was among the most essential initial measures. After conducting the necessary comparative historical studies, efforts were made to adopt the most efficient intervention methods.
Shaiba Khadir,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
Identifying the material and the main substrate of a cultural artifact, as well as the surface sediments in the process of conservation and restoration plays a significant role in determining the appropriate methods and ensuring the longevity of the artifact. To achieve this, the use of laboratory-based, instrumental, and microscopic techniques is indispensable. While some experts might be able to recognize the nature of the coin at a glance, this is not always possible, especially when it covered with substantial deposits or when its authenticity is in question. Therefore, in addition to experimental knowledge and comparative studies, precise laboratory methods are necessary. In the research has been carried out in the workshop of conservation and restoration of metal works of the Research Center for Conservation of Cultural Relies, we encountered instances familiar to many dealing with coin collections. For example, coins with a silver appearance that have become darkened and tarnished due to deposits caused by the surrounding environment and wear and tear, might initially seem to be silver. However, further investigation often reveals that they are of different alloy or have a Silver coating, or they have been silver-copper coins buried in soil, where deposits and extensive copper corrosion products sometimes make the identification more challenging. Various methods are employed in the study of coins to clarify the economic, social, and political conditions at the time of their minting. Techniques such as PIXE (Particle-Induced X-ray Emission) and XRF (X-ray fluorescence) have attracted more attention from researchers for reasons such as accuracy and non-destructiveness nature. However, it should be considered that in order to obtain a clear and accurate results, the surface of the coin needs to be clean and free of any kind of contamination before conducting these analyses. This underscores the importance of adhering to proper restoration processes for these historical artifacts. Before commencing cleaning, the conservator must consider factors such as the identification of the coin, its surrounding environment or burial and storage conditions, structural aspects, precision in coin minting, and its pathology. Assessment of these factors, not only helps numismatic studies and determining the authenticity of coin, but also assists in selecting the optimal method of cleaning. It should be kept in mind that the inappropriate selection of chemicals or the use of unsuitable mechanical tools can cause serious damage to the artifact's surface and disturb subsequent studies. this research introduces various methods used in the field of study of coins, both hammered and machine-struck, tend highlights the role and importance of laboratory studies in this context.
Mohammad Yaghizaei,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (6-2023)
Abstract
Pottery is one of the most important man-made artifacts, and with time, its manufacturing and application technology has also changed. Therefore, in most archaeological excavations, pottery artifacts occupy a major part of the discoveries, and most of these artifacts have special damages. Some of these damages are common, such as fractures and cracks, and some are special due to the burial conditions and low quality in the construction technique; Such as body layering damage that requires special protection and restoration studies. In this study, a sample of terracotta cauldron hanging on the Segzabad hill of Qazvin Plain belonging to the Iron Age period was studied. This study aimed to understand the construction technique, investigate the damages on the pottery body and the cause of these damages. To answer these questions, instrumental tests, such as XRF, and comparative historical studies have been used. All these studies will ultimately help in the way of conservation and restoration that should be done. After all the protective steps to prevent secondary damage that may occur after its restoration, a box is designed to store the pottery and, in some cases, even display it. The result obtained from all the steps was the recognition of the construction technique and the documentation of the damage in the body, which ultimately led to the protection and restoration of this historical and cultural work.
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.
Mehdi Razani, Masoud Bater,
Volume 7, Issue 2 (9-2024)
Abstract
Documentation and recording of cultural and historical artifacts are among the most critical stages in their conservation and restoration. However, this essential aspect is often overlooked by conservators, museums, and collectors. This article aims to familiarize students and practitioners with the fundamental principles of documenting historical ceramics. Unlike resources that focus on teaching photography, lighting, or technical drawing, this work emphasizes practical and essential guidelines for the accurate documentation of ceramic objects during the conservation and restoration process. In the documentation of ceramics, the importance of recording information as the first step in conservation and restoration is emphasized. This process includes documenting the object's current condition, recording interventions performed, and providing a comprehensive report for future research and operational use. Additionally, this study presents a background on the development of documentation in the field of conservation, illustrating how this process has evolved into a global standard. Another section of this research examines the stages and details of documentation, including the recording of physical, chemical, and pathological characteristics of artifacts. This process assists conservators and restorers in performing more effective and precise work in their projects. Moreover, the documents produced during documentation serve as reliable and credible evidence, enabling more accurate reconstruction of the object's history, analysis of manufacturing techniques, and technologies used in the production of historical artifacts. These records can also serve as a foundation for future research in the understanding and preservation of cultural heritage. This article seeks to enhance the knowledge and skills of documentation so that professionals can prepare comprehensive, accurate, and scientific reports for the future while carrying out restoration operations. The ultimate goal is to establish a foundation for sustainable conservation and valuable research in the field of cultural heritage.
Bardia Hajirasouliha, Mohammad Hossein Dehghani, Sarmad Bakhtiari,
Volume 7, Issue 4 (2-2025)
Abstract
The Qariha Historical House is a surviving structure from the Mozaffari era in the city of Yazd, reflecting transformations across various historical periods. This building, along with other structures from the same era, holds significant value due to its association with the golden age of Ilkhanid art and architecture, making it a compelling subject for multidisciplinary studies within the field of conservation science. To mitigate the deterioration of its structural elements and address existing damage, a series of conservation and restoration interventions have been implemented. These measures include localized foundation reinforcement, restoration and reconstruction of portals, repair and realignment of damaged arches, stabilization of wall layers and coatings, and the clarification of architectural decorative elements. This article aims to provide a comprehensive account of the conservation and restoration efforts undertaken for this historical building.