Investigating the Role of Mythological and Sacred Herbal Patterns in the Stucco Decorations of Seymareh Mosque

Among the important findings of excavations and archaeological research in Seymareh, the discovery of its mosque and its stucco decorations is highlighted. Regarding the Sasanian background of Seymareh and the direct effect of Sassanid stucco art on its mosque, the main objectives of this study are, first, the typology of herbal designs and then, identification of the mythological and sacred herbal patterns of this mosque. Accordingly, the main questions of the research are: 1) what are the mythological plant designs used in the mosque? 2: How explainable is the use of these motifs in decorations of the mosque, besides its religious and Islamic atmosphere? According to the studies, the sacred herbal patterns of this mosque include: pomegranate, vine, acanthus, palm, lotus, pine and oak fruit. Findings show that among the cultures of different nations in pre-Islamic period, pomegranate, vine, palm, and pine were symbols of fertility, immortality and blessing. Also, lotus, oak and acanthus were symbols of life, security, fertility, victory and success. Moreover, due to the establishment of Sassanid government in region, the moldings used in this mosque are derived from the Sassanid stucco art, lack of pre-Islamic mythological and symbolic views. Therefore, the plant designs of the mosque stucco decoration are derived from Sassanid era in terms of shape and form; also, regarding conceptual and content themes, these patterns are based on Islamic teachings, empty of mythological themes of Sassanid period. This study has been done by the descriptive and analyzing methodology, based on field and library studies.