A Study of Animal Motifs in Metalworking from the 5th to the 7th Centuries A.H.

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Master of Arts in Art Research, Payame Noor University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.

2 Assistant Professor, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.

Abstract

Introduction: Animal designs on metal objects from the 5th to the 7th century A.H. are among the most beautiful and meaningful designs of the post-Islamic era in Iran. Animal motifs indicated cosmic elements that expressed complex concepts of astronomy and astrology in the form of designs, reliefs, prayer inscriptions, etc. Belief in supernatural powersand seeking help from these forces or conquering them existed since ancient times, and human beings were always looking for a way to ensure success in life and favorable horoscopes by attracting these forces. Attributing natural manifestations to animal traits and using animal characteristics such as physical strength, escape strategies, habitat, body anatomy, and apparent characteristics played a major role in the formation of animal symbolism. In ancient times, these symbols were used for manifestations such as the moon, the sun, certain planets and various constellations, and mostly to show the change of seasons and the passage of day and night. With the advent of Islam in Iran, as well as the advancement of astronomy and the illustration of astronomical books, some symbols acquired additional or altered meanings and more symbols were added to them. With the introduction of Kufi and Naskh script in the decoration of objects, creativity and artistic genius were revitalized. The use of human and animal heads in writings containing prayers and wishes for prosperity and blessings for the owners of the objects was very popular. The use of animal and human motifs in the letters of the inscriptions and the use of these motifs between the letters of the inscription, in addition to the beauty of the line and pattern, transformed the writing into visually enigmatic forms. The method sometimes made it difficult to read the text. Although the symbols sometimes conveyed threats such as solar and lunar eclipses and evil but bringing clear symbols and texts containing prayers for prosperity, they promise the victory of good forces over evil and happiness. The widespread use of animal motifs in the fifth to seventh centuries A.H. as well as the creativity and skill in its implementation, justify the study of the original and subsequent meanings of these symbols. Through such an approach, in addition to understanding the concepts of symbolic motifs, one may also understand the constructive idea. The necessity and significance of the research lie in the fact that, although previous studies have examined to investigate astronomical and astrological concepts of animal symbols on the objects from this period, these studies have mostly focused on specific objects with specific symbols, often interpreting them in similar ways. Different aspects have been investigated in these key objects, while the fundamental symbolic concepts have remained underexplored.  
Purposes & Questions: The purpose of this research is to examine the concepts of animal motifs on metal objects of the 5th to 7th centuries of A.H. and to deal with the primary meanings of these symbols, as well as summarizing and integrating concepts and examining motifs across a wide range of works, not limited to well-known examples. Accordingly, the research addresses the following questions 1. Are the animal motifs inthe metalwork objects of the 5th to the 7th centuries A.H. merely a creative continuation of earlier motifs? 2. Or do these motifs reflect  the beliefs and mythological concepts of the people of that era?
Methods: This research is descriptive-analytical and is based on the review and collection of previous studies through library sources, using data from major museums and observations through museum visits and the use of archives from domestic and international museums and analyzing information based on image analysis. In this research, four samples from the National Museum of Iran -Islamic Period-, five samples from images published in authentic books and seventeen samples from the images available in museums worldwide have been used.
Findings & Results: Animal symbols on the objects studied in this research indicate that the purpose of depicting animals on these objects is not only to create visual beauty and fill the surfaces but also to convey the traditional and ritual meanings inherited from the past along with the symbolic concepts of mythology and astrology. Belief in the ability to align otherworldly forces in various works expresses hopes for health, status and blessings for their owner in this world and the hereafter. Especially the food containers, such as teapots, from which drinking water was believed to bring health and happiness; a belief that persists even now. The motifs examined in this article include rabbits, goats, lions, deer, and crabs, which in many cases are depicted individually, arranged sequentially or facing one another, as part of vegetal ornamentation or inscriptions. Two patterns, the hunting dog and the cow, are briefly examined in relation to the above topics. It is worth mentioning that birds and mythical creatures are not the subject of this research.

Keywords

References

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Negareh Journal
Volume 20, Issue 76
January 2026
Pages 9-10

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History

  • Receive Date: 18 June 2025
  • Revise Date: 11 October 2025
  • Accept Date: 22 October 2025

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