Analysis of Decorative Elements in the Inscriptions of Metal Utensils, Khorasan Style of Seljuk

The Seljuk era is one of the creative eras of the Islamic world and the peak of Iranian arts. Among the arts which flourished in this era, metalworking is a Seljuk method attributed to the Seljuks. During this period, a speacial and independent style and method was created in the shadow of encouragement and support of Seljuk rulers and sultans. Artists and craftsmen, especially in the northeastern regions of Iran, namely Khorasan and Transoxiana, created new methods, techniques and styles to experience. The most prominent decorative feature of these works is the inscriptions that were beautifully located all around or part of the metal body. The variety of beautiful paintings and Islamic calligraphy which were inserted on these inscriptions, not only provide contextual information about the culture and beliefs of that time, but also provide a rich visual and written source that indicates the quality of the decoration of Herat school of metal utensil. The purpose of this study is recognition of aesthetic characteristic of the inscriptions of these works in both area of painting and Islamic Calligraphy. The overall results of the research reflect the cultural and religious views of the makers and the state of the visual and written arts of the society at that time. The cultural and artistic features of this period include the use of geometric patterns, plant, animal, and humanistic ornamentation and the use of Arabic scribes and inscriptions, and the Kufic script like Naskh, with the same themes as prayer, praise, along with information indicating the power of the owner and names of artists, craftsmen and customers in Herat School.