A Comparative Analysis of Architectural Decorations in the Safavid Era Structures with Emphasis on Iranian-Islamic Culture in the City of Sabzevar

Abstract

One of the most magnificent manifestations of architecture in Islamic civilization is Iranian architecture, which is rooted in Islamic culture and shaped by unique celestial and mystical elements based on aesthetic and creative principles. Iranian architecture is formed upon distinctive and precise design founded on geometric principles, symmetry, symbolism in form, ornamentation, and structural elements. This study, employing a descriptive-analytical approach based on both library and field research methods, seeks to answer the question of how the grandeur of Islamic culture is reflected through the evaluation of Safavid-era architecture in the city of Sabzevar. The findings indicate that Safavid architecture in Sabzevar was predominantly based on simple and functional principles of elements and decorations. The architectural decorations of the Safavid period, utilizing plasterwork and tilework, were aligned with the fundamental concepts of Islam. The use of color schemes and muqarnas work reflects the emphasis placed on religious and national identity during that period, confirming the identity-constructing role of the structures from this era.