Vibrant jewel-like colors, intricate geometric patterns, graceful arches, majestic domes, and delicate latticework. These are some of the features we associate with Iranian (or Persian) architecture, which is undoubtedly some of the most beautiful in the world.
Iran is a country rich in history and tradition, and nothing makes that more obvious than its wealth of stunning buildings. Four features especially stand out on these monuments: stonework, stucco, brickwork and, of course, incredible panels of mosaic tiles.
This elaborately decorated ceiling, with shades of blue, brown, yellow and red, is a typical example of Iranian tilework. This particular vault and ceiling is from the iwan (or three sided chamber) of an Imamzadeh (a shrine-tomb), found at the tomb of the poet Omar Khayyam.
The tomb at Shah Cheragh, where this picture was taken, has a name that translates as “King of Light”. Indeed, this ceiling of an iwan within the tomb seems to positively radiate color. Both the interwoven tile pattern and the architecture are amazing, and we can only imagine how long it must have taken to create.
The magnificent Mo’aven ol Molk is a ‘Hosseinieh’, or shrine, where plays commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hossein at Karbala are performed. In this photograph, you can see the tile-patterned ceilings and walls as well as an illuminated stained glass window.
No comments:
Post a Comment