Analysis of tombstone motifs in Isfahan and Shiraz (Case study: Hana villages, Qomsheh Palace, Emamzadeh Emad al-Din and Qalat) with a mythological approach

Decorative motifs on tombstones are a reflection of cultural, social and religious conditions that have been used in the form of animal, plant, geometric, human, inscription and symbolic motifs. The Qashqai tribe has played an important role in political and social events throughout history. Due to the importance and necessity of familiarity with the cultural and artistic background of different ethnic groups, the present study aims to investigate the myths of the motifs used in the tombstones of the Qashqai tribe in Isfahan and Shiraz (Hana village, Qomsheh Palace, Imamzadeh Emad al-Din and Qalat) by descriptive library and field approach. - An analyst answers these questions; 1- What concepts do the motifs used in these tombs express? 2- What is the connection between the motifs and the myths and culture of their regions? The results of this study show that the designs engraved on the tombstones have been created under the influence of three causes, mythological insights and religious beliefs and the influence of the environment. Also, the heroic aspect of the myth is important and has a great impact on the formation of these motifs. Considering that the tombstones are after the arrival of Islam in Iran, we conclude that the influence of Islam on these motifs is very high and also expresses interests. The individual attachments of the deceased and survivors, beliefs, location and time and are a manifestation of the culture of the community.