An Analysis of the Graphical Features of the Ornamental Patterns of the Green Dome Tombs of Qom; with Emphasis on the Tomb of Khajeh Ali Safi

Among the traditional arts, Islamic architecture and its associated decorations has always been the perfect setting for the presence of various visual elements, particularly decorative ornaments. A number of remaining monuments from the Ilkhanid era such as the tombs of Qom's Green Dome (the tomb of Khajeh Ali Safi which is the main focus of this research) provide a clear example of this artistic richness that due to its potential visual abilities can be found in today’s art and in branches of contemporary art including graphic arts. This research is based on a "historical-comparative" method and a collection of findings based on library and documentary sources and field surveys. Firstly, a brief study of the historical background of the monument and the identification of the types of ornamentation used in the tomb, including herbal, geometric and inscriptional decorations among which the plant motifs occupy most of the ornamentation will be studied. In the following, the factors and elements of this role are discussed and their visual characteristics (rhythm, balance, symmetry, composition, unity, harmony of positive and negative space, etc.) are identified in order to understand the graphical dimensions of these motifs. Given that visual qualities and literacy are well-respected in these motifs, the above decorations can become a rich visual source for today's graphic designers.

1. Identifying the variety and characteristics of the motifs of Khajeh Ali Safi's tomb. 2. Extraction of motifs and studying its graphical features which can lead to revival and reuse of motifs in today's graphic arts.

Research questions: 

1. What are the features and visual literacy of the tombstone designs of Khajeh Ali Safi? 2. What is the diversity of the decorative elements of the tomb?