Introducing The Shams Ol-Emareh
Shams Ol-Emareh (meaning “Sun Building”) is an iconic structure located in the Iranian city of Isfahan. With its intricate blue tilework and bold design, it stands out as one of the most beautiful buildings in Iran. In this article, we’ll explore the history, architecture, and significance of this magnificent piece of Iranian heritage.
History & Background
Shams Ol-Emareh was constructed during the Qajar dynasty between 1865-1867 under the order of Mirza Hasan Ali Nasir al Molk. It served as a private residence for the wealthy aristocrat and his family.
The building’s design is attributed to the architect Haji Mohammed Hasan Memarbashi, who was known for his work on grand royal structures of the time. Located near the famed Naqsh-e Jahan Square, Shams al-Emareh was strategically positioned to flaunt the family’s status and wealth.
Purpose & Patronage
As with other Qajar-era architecture, Shams Ol-Emareh had both practical and representative purposes. Nasir al Molk used the building to not only house his family and servants, but also to host guests, hold celebrations, and overall show off his affluence as part of the elite ruling class.
The patronage of Shams Ol-Emareh also allowed Nasir al Molk to demonstrate his taste in art and architecture. The intricate details and expensive materials used were intended as a testament to his noble pedigree.
Architectural Design & Features
Shams Ol-Emareh incorporates elements of both traditional Persian architecture as well as European influences that were popular in 19th century Iran. The result is a vibrant five-story structure showcasing ornate style and technical innovation.
Layout & Concept
Shams Ol-Emareh has a rectangular footprint and features two tower-like sections flanking a recessed central portion. This creates an eye-catching facade despite the building occupying a relatively small footprint.
The concept behind the design is the interplay between light and shadow. The sun hits the structure at different angles throughout the day, creating glimpses of its intricate details even from far away. Hence the name “Sun Building.”
Tiling & Embellishments
Without a doubt, Shams Ol-Emareh’s blue tilework is its most captivating feature. Nearly every interior and exterior surface is adorned with colorful mosaic tile patterns and calligraphy.
Geometric shapes, swirling floral motifs, vases, and birds cover walls, ceilings, staircases, and arched alcoves. The tiles themselves were specially crafted to have sheen and texture for maximum visual impact. Even after over 150 years, the vivid tilework remains incredibly well-preserved.
Structural Elements
Shams Ol-Emareh also demonstrates technical skill through its tall, slender columns, arches, and load-bearing walls. For example, the recessed central portion of the front facade creates covered balconies on four floors. This is achieved by having intricate Column-and-beam style supports hold up projecting portions of the upper levels.
The builders used brick and mortar construction but installed metal tie rods inside the walls and vaulted spaces for stability against lateral loads like earthquakes. This attention to structural integrity has allowed Shams Ol-Emareh to withstand over a century and a half of weathering and aging.
Artistic Significance
As one of the few surviving Qajar-era edifices, Shams ol-Emareh holds great significance as a symbol of art and architecture from that period. The eclectic yet harmonious fusion of styles also represents a crucial point in Iran’s artistic timeline.
Blending Traditional Persian Style with European Influences
Shams ol-Emareh embodies the 19th century Qajar aesthetic which blended traditional Persian artistic tastes with then-fashionable European elements. This included things like Western-inspired wall paintings, large mirrored surfaces, and smaller private gardens.
Specific Persian aspects are also on full display, like the lavish tiling containing familiar floral and geometric motifs. Stalactite decoration under balconies and window sills similarly connect back to traditional Persian architecture.
A Lasting Legacy
While many other Qajar-era buildings have decayed over time, Shams Ol-Emareh remains a pristine embodiment of this important artistic period. It has endured remarkably well over 150 years later.
Its continued presence serves as an iconic reminder of Persian architectural history from the 19th century. The patron who commissioned it, as well as its architect and tile-workers, also leave lasting legacies through this structure.
Shams Ol-Emareh has rightfully earned its reputation as one of Iran’s architectural gems.
Current Status & Tourism
After sustaining some damage during the Anglo-Soviet invasion of Iran in 1941, Shams Ol-Emareh sat abandoned for decades. It was later restored to its former glory in 1991 by the Institute of Higher Education of Isfahan.
Cultural Heritage Site
Today, the building functions as an edutainment museum accessible to visitors. It is also designated as a National Iranian Heritage site, highlighting its cultural and historical significance.
Ongoing preservation efforts aim to maintain the structure as close to its original state as possible. Special care is given to protect the fragile tilework which acts as the main attraction.
Tourism Hub
The magnificent architecture and decorative detailing of Shams Ol-Emareh make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in Isfahan.
Domestic and foreign visitors flock to capture photos of the iconic facade and gaze at the mesmerizing tile patterns inside. Guided tours provide background details on the patron, architects, and unique design elements.
As one of the jewels of Persian heritage, Shams Ol-Emareh should be on every traveler’s must-see list for Iran. Its dazzling beauty alone makes it a worthwhile detour while visiting the Naqsh-e Jahan area of Isfahan.
Conclusion
From its conception in the mid-1800s to now, Shams Ol-Emareh has shone brightly as a spectacle of Iranian architecture. Its graceful fusion of aesthetic styles, painstaking details, and technical brilliance come together to create an unforgettable landmark.
Over a century later, Shams Ol-Emareh endures as a protected treasure allowing today’s visitors a glimpse into 19th century Persian artistry. The patron behind its vision and the skilled builders who brought it to life also leave lasting imprints for future generations to admire.