A Comparative Study of the Art of Calligraphy on Metal Teapots in the Seljuk and Safavid Periods

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Doctoral student of Art Research, Faculty of Art and Entrepreneurship, Isfahan University of Art

2 Department of Archeology. University of Birjand

10.22103/jis.2024.22738.2567

Abstract

Purpose: One of the fascinating aspects of studying metalworking art is the status of script engraving on metal vessels. Engraving of Kufic script adorned with complex decorative forms and inlay on metal vessels was widespread in the Seljuk period. In the Safavid era, artistic aspects flourished alongside a change in font style.
Method and Research: This article studies 20 metal vessels from the Seljuk and Safavid periods, sourced from various museums such as the National Museum of Iran, Metropolitan, Victoria and Albert, Britain, Boston, and Hermitage museums. The calligraphy on these vessels displays the manufacturing date, the creator and customer's name, the significant events of that period, prayer themes, and the owner’s titles. The main question is: How did the art of engraving scripts on metal vessels change based on script analysis during the Seljuk and Safavid periods? This study aims to compare the art of engraving scripts in the Seljuk and Safavid periods on metal vessels available in mentioned museums, focusing on inscriptions and script types.
Finding and Conclusion: In the Seljuk period, inscriptions on metal vessels were mainly adorned with decorative Kufic script, flowers, leaves, and sometimes human faces, intensifying their visual and aesthetic appeal. In the Safavid period, inscriptions were elegantly engraved in various styles of Persian script (such as Thuluth, Naskh, Raqa', and Shekasteh Nastaliq). Beautiful poems were presented surrounded by Toranj motifs on the metal part of the vessel. In addition to scripting, the art of calligraphy has found a decorative role and even carries a meaning beyond that: mystical and romantic aspects with an increased spiritual facet.

Keywords

References

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Journal of Iranian Studies
Volume 23, Issue 46 - Serial Number 46
December 2024
Pages 479-504

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