Document Type : Research Paper
Authors
1
College of Islamic Craft Arts, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran
2
College of Islamic Craft Arts, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran.
3
Department of Archaeology, Faculty of Cultural Materials Conservation, Tabriz Islamic Art University, Tabriz, Iran.
Abstract
Ceramic filter vessels in Iran are typically unglazed containers featuring a mesh filter integrated into their necks or openings. These vessels date back to the late 2nd millennium BCE and were used during the Islamic period, particularly in the late 2nd century AH, coinciding with the expansion of the Abbasid Caliphate across Egypt, Iran, North Africa, and Anatolia. Their usage continued through the Seljuk, Ilkhanid, and Safavid periods. Some studies have focused on regions outside of Iran; however, the current research suggests that Iran is likely the origin of these types of vessels. Given this significance, it is essential to conduct an independent study on ceramic filter vessels in Iran. Therefore, in line with the research issue, the following questions arise: 1) Based on existing evidence, when do the origins of ceramic filter vessels in Iran date back to? 2) What are the common types and applications of ceramic filter vessels in Iran?
The aim of the current research is to examine the historical changes in the forms of filter vessels based on Propp's theory, as well as to identify their uses, origins, and various types in Iran. The theory of morphological analysis by Propp emphasizes that the study of the form and structure of artistic works from each period plays a crucial role in examining the historical development and evolution of their forms and decorations. The findings indicate that there are at least seven different types of these vessels in Iran, including vessels with tube, rhytons, glasses, pitchers, jars, incense burners and ewers, with some examples dating back to pre-Islamic times. The bodies of these vessels are usually unglazed, though some have glazing or molded designs. They were designed for filtering liquids, use in ritual ceremonies, and various daily applications. The current research also examines ceramic filter vessels from the late 2nd millennium BCE to the Safavid period, revealing that these artifacts have been discovered in various regions of Iran, including Amlesh, Shush, and Kashan. After reviewing library sources, reputable international museum websites, auction houses, and conducting in-person visits to museums in Iran, 22 ceramic filter vessels related to Iran were studied. Among these, five artifacts belong to pre-Islamic periods (four from the late 2nd millennium BCE and the first half of the 1st millennium BCE, and one possibly from the Parthian period), while 17 belong to the Islamic period. Of the 17 Islamic artifacts, eight date to the 1st to 4th centuries AH, eight to the 5th to 7th centuries AH (Seljuk and Ilkhanid periods), and one to the 11th to 12th centuries AH (Safavid period). Based on the artifacts found from ancient Iran, it seems that these vessels were created before their mass production in other Islamic cultures. Ceramic filter vessels were used for purifying liquids and preventing insects and animals like scorpions and snakes from entering the water, helping to regulate the flow of water while drinking. In addition to their practical uses, existing evidence, such as the presence of multiple inscriptions of Quranic verses, supports the idea that they were also used in ritual ceremonies.
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