The documentary investigation of Zemmehnamehs in Qajar period

Zemmeh-nameh (obligation letter) is a deed or document that makes one liable to take certain action (mostly payment). This paper examines the structurs and contents such documents.

50 such documents held by National Archives are Iran are analysed. Library materials were also consulted to collect data. Findings and 

The structure consists of text and margin, each containing special elements. The content bears full name of both parties, the amount of debt or other kind of obligation, payment time and method, terms of contract. Zemmeh-nameh remained unchanged in content and form throughout the Qajarid eara (1789-1925). Only after the introduction of print technology and the beginning of Pahlavi era they were changed both in form and content.