Identification, classification and analysis of shir-sar motifs in Gorgan`s buildings in Quajarid period

Gorgan (astarabad), the area from which Quajarid dynasty was originated contains valuable buildings from this era. One type of art existing in some of the buildings is Shir-sar (The parts of under-ceiling) painitngs which like an illustrated book provide an arena to reflect the ancient beliefs and thought. The various motifs used in these Shir-sars have non- religious motifs and are considered to be a treasure of local and folk arts. Although they are not of a high artistic and visual quality, they are very useful when studying cultural atmosphere dominating astarabad`s inhabitants living in Quajarid era. In the present research, which was done in the field, the effective cultural and social factors to form the motifs were studied to identify the various types of the designs used on the Shir-sar and to analyze their motifs. As a result of the research, it has been clarified that the decorations in the buildings were completely depedent on the inhabitants` cultural elements, beliefs, social status, lifestyles and economic levels. In addition, since such motifs as Goodess, mythological animals and plants which are related to rain and fertility are portrayed in Shir-sar, we can find a meaningful relationship between these artistic works with Shir-sar`s functions.