Recognising Karbandi in Iran's Architecture and a Review of its Decorative-Structural Role. Issue 2 (3rd July 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Saremi Naeeni, Davoud; Aibaghi Esfahani, Hamid; Mirshojaeian Hosseini, Iman
• Is Part Of: Iran. Volume 56:Issue 2(2018)
• Page Start: 173
• Page End: 183
• Publication Date: 2018-07-03
• Subjects: Iran -- Islamic architecture -- brick structure -- finishing work -- karbandi; Iran -- Antiquities -- Periodicals; Iran -- Civilization -- Periodicals; 955.005
• DOI: 10.1080/05786967.2017.1406789
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0578-6967

Abstract

ABSTRACT: One of the special features of Iran's architecture is the transformation of the square base to a circle at the base of the dome which is referred to as gusheh sazi (corner construction) . Karbandi is one of its variants, which also plays a role in load transfer. The aim of this paper is to study karbandi in order to recognise and review its decorative and structural functions. This is a descriptive-analytical study based on field and library information. By reviewing different samples, the authors argue that karbandi has been used not only as a decorative element but also as a load-bearing element in transforming the square base to a circle. However, this name has been used sometimes to introduce mere decorative elements which are hung from the ceiling, such as muqarnas, kasehsazi and qatarbandi . As a whole, three main categories of karbandi may be considered: (1) structural karbandi which is related to the main ceiling; (2) karbandi which is related to brickwork in lower crusts of double-shell domes and the lower cover of sloping roofs and (3) something between masonry work and finishing work in the construction which is often used in half domes in entrances, portal arches ( iwan ) and apses.