The art of stone carving in Iran: a legacy of ancient civilization
Stone engraving is one of the oldest and most authentic Iranian arts, which has its roots in the history of this land. Since ancient times, Iranians have created unique works by mastering different carving techniques, which are a symbol of creativity, elegance and artistic power of this nation.
History of stone carving in Iran
- Prehistoric Era: Archaeological evidence shows that Iranians carved stones into tools and sculptures using simple tools since millennia BC.
- Historical period: In the Achaemenid, Sassanid and Islamic periods, stone engraving reached its peak. Magnificent monuments such as Persepolis, Pasargad, and the Tomb of Cyrus the Great are proof of the high skill of Iranian masons at that time.
- Islamic era: In this period, stone carving was used in the construction of religious buildings such as mosques, shrines and tombs. Also, stone carving played an important role in the interior and exterior decorations of these buildings.
Types of stone carving in Iran - Volumetric engraving: In this type of engraving, designs are carved out of stone.
- Flat engraving: In this type of engraving, designs are carved on the surface of the stone.
- Decorative engraving: In this type of engraving, precious and semi-precious stones are used to create beautiful and elegant designs.
Applications of engraving on stone - Architecture: stone carving has been widely used in the construction of historical buildings, mosques, palaces and bridges.
- Sculpture: stone carving is used to make religious, historical and ornamental sculptures.
- Interior decorations: stone carving is used in the interior decorations of buildings such as fireplaces, columns, and floors.
- Crafts: stone carving is used to make decorative objects such as containers, boxes and beads.
Stone carving tools - Hammer: to break and shave stone
- Axe: to create a smooth and even surface
- Pen: to create detailed and delicate designs
- File: to smooth the surface of the stone