Showing 23 results for Stone
Roqiyeh Movahedi Mehrabad , Reza Vahidzadeh,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (10-2017)
Abstract
The Shah Hamzeh mausoleum, located in the city of Qom, is a monument from the Safavid period. The eastern porch of this monument was decorated blue and white tiles during the Qajar period. The aim of this article is to introduce the historical monument of Shah Hamzeh and its decorations. In this regard, a sample of the blue and white tiles of the monument was technologically examined using library studies, optical and digital microscope methods, and SEM-EDX and XRD methods. Based on the studies conducted, the paint layer was applied directly to the stone body without a preparatory layer, and then a glass layer was applied on it.
The Shah Hamzeh mausoleum, located in the city of Qom, is a monument from the Safavid period. The eastern porch of this monument was decorated blue and white tiles during the Qajar period. The aim of this article is to introduce the historical monument of Shah Hamzeh and its decorations. In this regard, a sample of the blue and white tiles of the monument was technologically examined using library studies, optical and digital microscope methods, and SEM-EDX and XRD methods. Based on the studies conducted, the paint layer was applied directly to the stone body without a preparatory layer, and then a glass layer was applied on it.
Mehdi Razani,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (7-2017)
Abstract
Building materials, particularly stone, play a fundamental role in shaping architectural styles and identity. Despite the long history of stone usage in Iranian architecture, this material has seldom been studied independently and analytically in stylistic research. Stone architecture—from early natural spaces such as caves to hand-carved dwellings across Iran, and from prominent governmental and religious structures throughout various historical periods up to the contemporary era—provides a valuable context for understanding the relationship between materials, construction technology, and stylistic evolution. This brief article aims to introduce a systematic classification framework for Iranian stone architecture, emphasizing the necessity of re-examining this field from a stylistic perspective. In addition to exploring the reasons behind the relative neglect of this subject, the study examines how different forms of stone contribute to the remarkable diversity of building materials. Furthermore, it investigates the various applications of stone in architecture to analyze the stylistic features of Iranian stone architecture, independent of ruling dynasties and historical periods
Amirhossein Mojtahedzadeh,
Volume 1, Issue 2 (9-2018)
Abstract
The interest of Iranians in gemstones and precious and semi-precious stones has roots spanning thousands of years in the culture and history of this land. This has led to the accumulation of a vast treasure of unique jewelry and gemstones, recognized as a national and cultural asset, due to mineral resources and historical conquests. However, with recent discoveries and advancements in the field of gemstones and precious and semi-precious minerals, the conditions necessary for the conservation, protection, and display of this invaluable and unique heritage have undergone new transformations and progress. Implementing and adhering to these requirements in the country is essential for this field and is vital for preserving the authenticity and essence of these specimens due to their exceptional value. This applied research aims to explore transformations in the gemstone field, introduce new internationally adopted principles, and examine the modern global standards and conditions in this area. Gemstones can have organic or mineral origins and may be displayed in raw, cut, historical, or contemporary forms. This group also includes loose gemstones and those mounted in jewelry, highlighting the diverse range of existing artifacts. Based on the mentioned classifications, efforts are made today to establish ideal conditions tailored to the type of specimens. Factors such as lighting, display methods, gemstone restoration techniques, and temperature and humidity conditions directly impact the quality and essence of the specimens, ensuring their longevity and stability over time. Providing an appropriate environment and controlling all the aforementioned factors will guarantee the durability and value of the gemstones.
Zeinab Haghighat, Mohammad Sohrabi ,
Volume 1, Issue 3 (1-2019)
Abstract
Stone monuments in open natural spaces (such as statues, monuments, petroglyphs, motifs, rock paintings and carvings, historical monuments and archaeological sites) are usually surrounded by communities of various living organisms. These living organisms choose a place to grow and live according to specific conditions such as the type of rock bed, climatic and geographical factors. This article examines the effects of several examples of the presence of these biological communities (bacteria, fungi, algae and lichen), trees, shrubs, grasses, insects and animals in the Parseh and Pasargadae complexes. Awareness of biodiversity and the type of possible damage caused by these organisms is essential for managing preventive conservation programs and the fundamental restoration of World Heritage sites and their healthy transmission to future generations.
Atefeh Shekofteh, Hossein Ahmadi, Mehdi Yazdi,
Volume 2, Issue 1 (6-2019)
Abstract
The number of historical open-air sites built of stone are relatively limited in comparison to the other historical artificial in Iran, but these sites include great significance in terms of value, historic and their knowledge of past. Since these stone poen-air sites are generally about two thousand years old, they have been exposed to decay factors for a long time. Many information and data on the types of decay factores and their patterns are scattered in the articles and books generally available in English which their access to experts in the field of conservation and restoration is limited. In this study, we attempted, through purposeful data from research on the open-air sites and monuments, to effectively address all aspects of the deterioration of carbonate sedimentary stones which constitute the majority of Iran’s sites. In this way, using library references, environmental factors and common decay patterns in similar climate and industrial conditions are discussed. It has become clear from studies that, contrary to the impression, “environmental factors” are not only the factors in the deterioration of sedimentary stones, but also the physical and chemical properties of the stone (Intrinsic problems) are also very important in the term of decay. Among the chemical and physical decay factors, chemical factors in deterioration are more important because the lead to the dissolution or alteration of the nature of the stone.
Roqiyeh Movahedi Mehrabad , Reza Vahidzadeh,
Volume 2, Issue 1 (6-2019)
Abstract
The Shah Hamzeh mausoleum, located in the city of Qom, is a monument from the Safavid period. The eastern porch of this monument was decorated blue and white tiles during the Qajar period. The aim of this article is to introduce the historical monument of Shah Hamzeh and its decorations. In this regard, a sample of the blue and white tiles of the monument was technologically examined using library studies, optical and digital microscope methods, and SEM-EDX and XRD methods. Based on the studies conducted, the paint layer was applied directly to the stone body without a preparatory layer, and then a glass layer was applied on it.
The Shah Hamzeh mausoleum, located in the city of Qom, is a monument from the Safavid period. The eastern porch of this monument was decorated blue and white tiles during the Qajar period. The aim of this article is to introduce the historical monument of Shah Hamzeh and its decorations. In this regard, a sample of the blue and white tiles of the monument was technologically examined using library studies, optical and digital microscope methods, and SEM-EDX and XRD methods. Based on the studies conducted, the paint layer was applied directly to the stone body without a preparatory layer, and then a glass layer was applied on it.
Mohammad Amin Emami,
Volume 3, Issue 2 (9-2020)
Abstract
It is a study of the microstructure of ancient materials that will be investigated using catholuminescence microscopy. The importance of
this method is in the identification of historical materials based on the observation and analysis of structures that are not observable in other
methods of microscopic studies. The cathodoluminescence properties of materials and their microscopic observation can be used both in the analysis of production technology and concerning the historical origin of materials. This study examined several samples of prehistoric and historic ceramics from Haft Tappeh, ChoghaZanbil, Persepolis and some stones from the Pasargadae foundation. The thermal regime and temperature of the pottery are determined based on the type of crystalline material in the pottery matrix and the phase changes during cooking, to interpret the technology and origin of the pottery. On the other hand, identification of the luminescence characters created by the minerals in the carbonate rocks of the Pasargadae and their similarity to the possible mineral rocks in the area (Abolverdi Mine), can provide useful information in identifying the origin of the rocks used in this building. To determine the microscopic applications of catholuminescence, all the materials studied were first studied using standard laboratory methods, such as optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction and thermal studies to determine the phase changes of crystalline and mineral phases and determine the firing temperature of the pottery. Complementary results based on catholuminescence microscopy indicate the observation of the process of crystalline changes and the heating of the pottery matrix based on the type and quality of the raw materials used and their similarities and differences in the pottery texture. Also, the observation of the microstructures of the rocks based on their mineralogy and microfossils which were contained in it and are not normally visible, provides useful information about the similarity of the types of stones used in the construction of Pasargadae with the rock outcrops from the mines around Pasargadae.
Vahid Aghaie, Mohammad Hossein Dehghani , Zahra Danesh Heidari ,
Volume 3, Issue 2 (9-2020)
Abstract
In Gallery No. 455 of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, USA, there is a historical tombstone, originally said to be from Yazd, Iran. The inscription on the stone dates to 759 AH. According to information provided by the museum on its website, the tombstone is attributed to a man named «Sheikh Mahmoud ibn Sada Muhammad,» who is described as the leader of a religious brotherhood. However, the study of the stone›s inscriptions, which, fortunately, are fully available
in both the original script and translation (Arabic and English) thanks to the museum, offers clues for further research into the true owner and the story behind it. Research into the gathered information, beginning with the inscriptions on the tombstone, reveals that the stone actually belongs to Sheikh Mahmoud ibn Taqi al-Din Dada Muhammad Yazdi, one of the great leaders of the Dada’iya Sufi order in Yazd, and a renowned Sufi of medieval Islamic Iran. His name and lineage have been mistakenly recorded, and the name of the Sufi order under his leadership, «Dada’iya,» was erroneously interpreted as a common colloquial term for «brother» in the local dialects of central Iran, particularly in cities like Isfahan and Yazd, where «Dadash» and «Dada» are used informally. This error led to his misidentification as the head of a religious brotherhood. According to descriptions from scholars based on local accounts, the tombstone—along with other gravestones of disciples and sheikhs of the Dada’iya order buried around Mahmoud Shah in the Bundarabad complex in Yazd—was taken abroad at an unknown time, likely in the late 19th to early 20th century, and later ended up in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York. This research note presents a description and narrative of this tombstone and the life of its owner, a story that begins in Bundarabad, Yazd, and continues in New York, USA.
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.
Amir Ershad Langroudi, Hamid Fadaei, Kamran Ahmadi, Monir Beheshti Far,
Volume 3, Issue 4 (3-2021)
Abstract
The reinforcement and hydrophobicity enhancement of historical construction materials, particularly the surfaces of historical stones, are among the most sensitive and challenging interventions in cultural heritage conservation. These interventions require precise analysis and comprehensive research to minimize potential side effects. Such actions are especially essential when stone artifacts exposed to open environments suffer from severe degradation and erosion or exhibit significant surface changes, potentially leading to loss of aesthetic and structural integrity. Without timely intervention, erosive factors may penetrate deeper layers of the artifact, posing a risk of complete collapse. In this study, the performance of three industrial silane/siloxane-based coatings Wacker 290, Wacker 3003, and Long Life was evaluated in the coating process of stone materials. The physical, mechanical, and especially hydrophobic properties of these materials on stone surfaces were analyzed and compared. Results indicated that all three materials exhibited moisture-repellent properties. However, Long Life and Wacker 290 demonstrated superior performance due to their better bonding with stone surfaces. These findings provide effective guidance for selecting suitable materials in conservation projects of historical artifacts, preventing the premature deterioration of these invaluable heritages.
Leyli Nemani Khiyavi, Alireza Amiri Baghbadorani, Naser Zavari,
Volume 4, Issue 3 (12-2021)
Abstract
Historical inscriptions, especially in religious and educational buildings, are considered prominent and unique cultural and historical heritage symbols. One of these inscriptions, located at the entrance of the Talebiyyeh School in Tabriz, is a remarkable example of Iranian Islamic calligraphy and architecture. These stone carvings, with their writings and texts, bear profound messages about their time's history, culture, and social and political status. This paper focuses on the detailed analysis and reading of the inscription on the facade of the Talebiyyeh School, located at the entrance of Tabriz's covered bazaar. The inscription, written in the Thuluth script, offers important information not only on the artistic and architectural values but also on the endowment deeds and governmental orders of the time. The inscription, created in 1216 AH by the order of the ruling authorities of Tabriz and signed by prominent figures of the era, contains significant legal and religious concepts reflecting the spiritual and social dimensions of the period. This study, from the perspectives of linguistics, epigraphy, and the analysis of historical implications, introduces and explains the inscription, aiming to reveal its complex meanings through a deep examination of the actions taken on the monument, including the color harmonization. The main research questions are: What are the texts and writings of the inscription on the facade of the Talebiyyeh School in Tabriz, and what information does it convey? What changes have occurred on the inscription over time? How can the stone inscription be replicated to extract the maximum amount of information from this monument? To answer these questions, historical studies, field investigations, and modern documentation methods, including photogrammetry and digital design of the inscription's text, were employed. After completing these stages, the re-reading of the inscription text and examining its changes over time were accomplished. Preserving and maintaining this cultural heritage can pave the way for future research in the fields of conservation and the history of Islamic art.
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.
Samin Eshaghi Fesqendisi,
Volume 5, Issue 1 (3-2022)
Abstract
The present study examines and identifies the tombstone belonging to the cultural heritage department of Oskou city. The city of Oskou, located in the west of East Azerbaijan province, has many historical monuments, and gravestones are one of them. These symbols are considered as one of the cultural and social values of the region and the process of formation of different types of patterns and decorations can be carefully studied in them. The tombstone studied in this research was obtained from the historical cemetery of Khosraq neighborhood and is currently located in the cultural heritage office of Oskou city. During this research, the pathological condition of this stone has been examined and historical and comparative studies have been conducted to identify the period of the effect and match it with similar stones. Also, attention has been paid to its technology, type of motifs and stone carving method. To identify the type of rock, thin sections have been prepared and analyzed by petrography (petrography). Finally, after taking actions such as documenting, cleaning, patching and reconstructing the missing parts, a proposed plan for protection, restoration, display and maintenance of the work has been presented.
Mehdi Razani, Parisa Zahedi, Omid Omidian,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract
Hamidreza Irani, Gholamreza Yazdani,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract
The “Bismillah stone” inscription is one of the significant works of the Qajar era in the Azarbaijan Museum of Tabriz since 1993. This work was crafted in Cairo, Egypt by an Iranian artist named Mohammad Ali Quchani known as Mirza Sangalakh. The artifact comprises five segments, collectively weighing approximately more than three tons. Most of damages caused in this work, considering its delicate decorations and substantial weight, has been attributed to its multiple relocations. In addition to very delicate carvings, the surface of the work is decorated with blue, gold, green, black, white and red colors. It seems that in addition to the ups and downs history of this work and its cultural significance within contemporary society, particularly among the people of Tabriz, only a review of its history will not be enough to express its status, value and unique characteristics. Therefore, a more detailed and scientific study could significantly enhance the understanding and appreciation of this work. Furthermore, for improved preservation and potential restoration of the work, documentation and scientific studies are needed for this magnificent work. To identify the materials and origins of existing colors, the application of scientific and laboratory methods was put on the agenda. To achieve this, two methods of classical chemistry testing and EDX analysis were employed to identify the present colors. the results confirmed the presence of indigo, copper rust (cuprous oxide), gold powder, Shangraf (cinnabar), bone soot and sheikh white (white lead) in the coloration of the artifact.
Seyed Iraj Beheshti, Nahid Vahabi Kashani ,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract
The Niavaran Cultural-Historical Complex is situated within a vast garden of approximately 11 hectares garden in northern Tehran, characterized by its rich natural beauty and historical significance. The buildings in this complex date back to the Qajar and Pahlavi eras, including the Sahebqaranieh Palace, the Ahmad Shahi Pavilion, Niavaran Palace, a private library, and the Jahan Nama Museum. Among these, the Ahmad Shahi Pavilion, one of the Qajar palaces in the complex, lacks any dated inscriptions or historical markers.; however, evidence suggests that this building was constructed during the reign of Ahmad Shah Qajar. This two-story building houses personal belongings of Reza Pahlavi. On the ground floor, in the western section of the building, there are two rooms separated by glass display cases. Four large glass display cases segregate these two rooms, containing 106 pieces of rough and cut precious and semi-precious stones, along with several fossils. The primary objective of this article is to study and identify the stone and fossil specimens present in these display cases. The studied stones are primarily quartz in various colors, alongside mineral specimens such as pyrite, chalcopyrite, stibnite, sulfur, and precious stones like beryl, as well as various types of fish fossils, ammonites, trilobites, and contemporary fossils such as corals and fish. Three notable specimens in these display cases include a natural diamond associated with a kimberlite host rock, likely originating from South African mines; a tektite meteorite sample brought from the moon, which was gifted by then-President t Nixon; and several beautiful rough turquoise mineral samples with a host rock originating from the Nishapur turquoise mine. A significant drawback of this collection is the lack of historical information regarding how these collectible specimens were gathered, purchased, or gifted, and by whom.
Parisa Zahedi,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (1-2023)
Abstract
The use of tombstones to mark the burial place of the dead is an ancient tradition. Over time, its types, shapes, and sizes depending on the traditions, culture, and religion, as well as the impact that the deceased had on his family and society during his lifetime has been changed. Tombstones also play an important role in preserving history, as they often have inscriptions that provide insight into the people buried beneath them and the cultural practices of that historical period. The tombstones of the Islamic period play an important role in recognizing Islamic culture in the past ages. Ohadi Maragheh is a poet of the late 7th and early 8th century AH, and his tomb is in a cemetery in Maragheh and his tombstone is a sandstone box with decorations and inscriptions. In this article, using field, library, and laboratory studies, the typology, characterization and preservation-digital reconstruction of the tombstone of Ohadi Maraghei have been studied. Using this method before carrying out physical conservation and restoration activities can be helpful in showing what will happen. The restorer can give researchers a general picture of the restored work by performing digital reconstructions.
Mehdi Razani, Ali Mirzaei, Ramin Mohammadi Sefidkhani,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (9-2023)
Abstract
This article examines and identifies the tombstone of the late Seyyed Rouhollah Kashfi Darabi and discusses how to carry out its restoration, reconstruction, and display. The necessity and importance of this research is the attention to the conservation and restoration of outdoor stone artefacts in the museum that are exposed to environmental factors in open areas. This has been accomplished through laboratory studies identifying stones using petrographic methods and examining similar past experiences in the region through field and library research. After documenting, analyzing, and evaluating the intervention and reconstruction methods, the incomplete interventions of previous restorations were cleaned up and rectified. In continuation, the reconstruction of the tombstone was carried out using silicone molds and polyester resin. The restoration intervention was done by examining and comparing various reconstruction methods for such works and the less-considered idea was innovatively implemented by reconstructing the missing parts with polyester resin (simulating marble stone) while considering technical and aesthetic principles. Finally, conservation and restoration measures were carried out using 4% Paraloid B-72 as a coating-stabilizer and it was entrusted to the technical office of Tabriz Islamic Art University with arrangements for display and conceptual space. Despite the positive aspects of the reconstruction measures in terms of technical and aesthetic principles, due to the location of the artifact in the outdoor environment and exposed to destructive environmental factors, follow-up researches are needed to investigate the behaviour of stone and restoration materials.
Anisa Shiri , Hamid Fadaei, Leila Razavi, Mostafa Rakhshandehkhoo, Mohammad Reza Alikhah, Zeinab Mohtasham,
Volume 6, Issue 4 (3-2024)
Abstract
Stone structures are susceptible to weathering and erosion over time, necessitating the identification and elimination of damaging factors to ensure their preservation. This research focused on diagnosing the damage to the tomb of Xerxes located at the historical site of Naqsh-e Rostam through a multidisciplinary approach encompassing library research, field observations, laboratory analyses, and geological studies. Petrographic studies revealed that the rocks comprising the tomb belong to the Seruk Formation. The sedimentary sequence within this formation exhibited thick and light-colored limestone layers. Utilizing the geophysical technique of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), two major fractures were identified along the boundaries of the tomb. These fractures predominantly followed north-south and east-west orientations. The intersection of these fracture sets, combined with the layering surfaces, resulted in the development of dissolution phenomena, leading to the formation of dissolution holes and cavernous porosity on the structure. Additionally, field studies investigated the presence of plants and cyanobacterial lichens on the tomb.
Habib Meshkinfam Fard, Mohammad Hassan Talebian,
Volume 7, Issue 1 (6-2024)
Abstract
The structure of Persepolis is subjected to various factors that cause erosion and decay due to moisture. The cement mortars used in past restorations are one of the challenges in preserving this grand stone monument. Over time, these mortars, due to higher water absorption than the stone, have exacerbated the destructive effects of moisture, causing serious but gradual and irreversible damage. Since removing these mortars and replacing the past restorative measures to improve the current situation is extremely difficult and may have damaging consequences for these valuable artifacts, this research aims to evaluate the impact of nano waterproof coatings on reducing the moisture absorption of the used cement mortars through comprehensive studies on the current state of these monuments and the restorations carried out with cement. Therefore, this research aims to provide a suitable solution without needing to remove the cement mortar and with minimal intervention to protect these artifacts. This study employs an experimental research method and considers theoretical concepts within laboratory studies. In this process, two types of Iranian and foreign nano waterproof coatings named Zycosil Max and FarazSil were applied on similar cement mortar samples, and their permeability and water absorption were evaluated using water absorption percentage and capillarity tests. The results showed that both waterproof coatings effectively reduced the cement mortar's water absorption. Zycosil Max, with a performance of 60.5%, and Faraz Sil, with a performance of 48.02%, significantly reduced the water absorption of the cement mortar, with Zycosil Max showing better performance than FarazSil. However, considering that the water absorption percentage did not reach close to that of the stone samples of Persepolis and the more than tenfold difference in water absorption percentage, none of the studied materials are recommended for waterproofing the cement mortar used in the restoration of the Persepolis monument.
