Persian interior design in public buildings, particularly during the Safavid dynasty (1501-1736), showcased a rich amalgamation of artistic influences from various sources including Iranian, Turkic, Arab, and European cultures. Here are the common decorative elements that characterized Persian interior design:
1. Islimi: Islimi is a term that refers to the intricately floral and vegetal patterned ornamentation commonly found in Persian architecture. It features swirling vines, leaves, and flowers, often intertwined and interconnected in a geometric manner.
2. Muqarnas: Muqarnas refers to a three-dimensional geometric architectural ornamentation, resembling stalactites or honeycombs. These decorative elements were often used in ceiling vaults, domes, and niches, creating a breathtaking visual effect.
3. Minakari: Minakari is the art of enameling metals, particularly silver and copper. It involves applying vibrant colors and intricate patterns to create exquisite decorative items such as vases, tiles, and chandeliers. Buildings would often showcase minakari elements in their interior, adding a touch of opulence and elegance.
4. Tilework: Persian tilework, known as kashi-kari, was prevalent in the interior spaces of public buildings. Tiles, usually blue in color, were intricately designed with floral motifs, calligraphy, and geometric patterns. The tiles were assembled to form beautiful mosaic patterns on walls, dome interiors, and minarets.
5. Stucco: Stucco was extensively used in Persian interior design, especially on walls and ceilings. Skilled craftsmen would carve intricate designs on wet plaster, creating delicate patterns of foliage, arabesques, and calligraphy. Stucco designs were then painted or gilded to enhance their visual impact.
6. Calligraphy: Persian calligraphy, known as "suls" or "thuluth" script, played a significant role in interior design. Expert calligraphers would inscribe verses from the Quran or poetic lines onto walls, arches, and niches, transforming them into visually striking decorative elements.
7. Carpets: Persian carpets are renowned worldwide for their exquisite craftsmanship and intricate designs. These hand-knotted carpets, often featuring floral motifs, geometric patterns, and intricate borders, were used to cover floors in public buildings, adding warmth, color, and luxury to the interiors.
8. Mirror work: Persian interior design also incorporated mirror work known as aineh-kari. Pieces of mirror were meticulously cut into various shapes and sizes and embedded into the walls, ceilings, and domes to give a shimmering effect. This technique enhanced the illumination within the space and created an illusion of spaciousness.
9. Woodwork: Persian woodwork, known as jali or mashrabiya, involved the carving of intricate designs on wooden window screens, room dividers, and balconies. These delicate patterns, often depicting floral and geometric motifs, allowed for the diffusion of light while adding privacy and beauty to the interior spaces.
Overall, Persian interior design in public buildings was characterized by its rich ornamentation, vibrant colors, and a harmonious blend of organic and geometric patterns. The use of intricate tilework, calligraphic inscriptions, enamel works, and exquisite craftsmanship exemplified the opulence and artistic mastery of Persian architectural heritage.
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