Papers by Manouchehr Moshtagh Khorasani
Journal of Iran National Museum, 2025
The National Museum of Iran keeps a large painting with an impressive size showing a battle of Fa... more The National Museum of Iran keeps a large painting with an impressive size showing a battle of Fath Ali Shāh Qajar with the Russian troops. The date of origin and also the name of the artist are unknown. It is currently
wrongly titled “the Battle of Ganja” in the National Museum of Iran. However, based on the depictions of arms and armor carried by the Russian troops and also the lack of any European-style arms and armor and uniforms worn by Persian troops, this painting should depict “the battle of Yerevan” (June 1804 CE) and not the battle of Ganja (1826 CE). There are different reasons for this hypothesis. After the arrival of Jaubert and General Gardane on the Gardane Mission (1807–09 CE), a number of military reforms were initiated in Persia. These reforms not only included standardization of issued military swords and weapons but also the introduction of Europeanized unforms. The effects of these reforms are not depicted in this painting as Persian troops are still using their traditional arms and armor and also wearing their traditional attire. Therefore, the painting should refer to an earlier time such as 1804 CE. Further, the painting shows Fath Ali Shāh being involved in the battle scene, which is also an indication of an earlier date as he used to inspect his troops in Soltāniyeh in 1804 CE. It seems that was the only time he actively took part in a military engagement. Additionally, the Rus-
sian officers in this painting are wearing cocked hats and the infantry soldiers are wearing typical grenadier (or fusilier) caps of the period of 1804 CE. Further future research needs to be done on this painting to analyze the inconsistencies of the depictions of Russian uniforms as they are shown in the painting.
Oblicza Wojny, Tom 10, Naredzia Wojny
he notes that he describes one hundred sixty crafts in his book, 1 and that the book consists of ... more he notes that he describes one hundred sixty crafts in his book, 1 and that the book consists of forty parts, each divided into smaller chapters or sections. However, the author contradicts himself some sentences later by adding that his book consists of twenty-four parts, and each part contains several chapters. This inconsistency could be due to different reasons-the author could have used another manuscript as its source, or the scribe made a mistake in counting different parts/chapters of the book (assuming that the author and scribe were two distinct persons). The manuscript itself has 101 sheets, each consisting of 2 pages, for a total of 202 pages. Each page has thirteen sentences written in a beautiful naste'aliq script, with the titles of parts and chapters written in red. The book has unique topics. Although the book is written mainly in Persian, pages 97-100 are in Arabic. M. Chatra'i assumes that some parts of these sheets written in the Arabic language could be a direct quote from Mohammad Zakariya Rāzi's works. Based on the prose style and collocations, Chatra'i assumes that the manuscript Javāher al-Sanāye' [ Jewels of Crafts] was written during the Safavid period; however, he does not provide any hard evidence for this assumption. 2 Some pages have handwritten explanations added by an editor on the corner of some pages, quoting the books Maxzan al-Adviyeh [Treasure of Medicines] written in Persian by Mohammad Hossein Aqili Alavi Khorasani in 1771-1781 CE (1185-1195 Hijra) and Qarābā Din [Graphidion], dedicated to the study of traditional medicine, written in 1771 CE (1185 Hijra). These notes serve to explain some parts of the book and especially describe the suggested ingredients in the original manuscript. 3 Therefore, the manuscript was written before 1771 CE. Note that the Safavid period lasted from 1501 to 1736 CE. Javāher al-Sanāye' attributes some crafts and operations to some masters such as Master Filsuf al-Maqrebi (p. 5), Kālenj Hakim (p. 72), Yāquti Mosta'sami (p. 73), Ya'qub ibn Ishāq Kāraz (p. 75), and Master Evaz Mobser (p. 181). We do not have any further information about the mentioned masters to deduce more information about the correct dating of the manuscript.
IJAS (Iranian Journal of Archaeological Studies), 2023
The following article analyzes a classical highly-curved Persian šamšir (sword) that is kept in t... more The following article analyzes a classical highly-curved Persian šamšir (sword) that is kept in the Malek Library Museum in Tehran, Iran. The blade is highly-curved, has a wedge shape, and a flat fuller. However, the typical style of most highly-curved Persian sword blades has no fullers. The blade is made of patterned crucible steel (pulād-e gŏhardār). Persian patterned crucible steel was considered one of the best types of steel not only in Iran but also in other countries. Based on the pattern and visisble structures of the surface of the blade, patterned crucible steel was classified into different categories. The crucible steel pattern on this example is pulād-e jŏhardār-e xati that means "lined watered steel. The blade has a gold-overlaid maker's mark of Assadollāh Isfahāni and also carries the name of Šāh Abbās. These are integrated in four gold-overlaid inscriptions on the obverse side of the blade. The upper cartouche reads: Al-Soltān Šāh Abbās (the ruler Šāh Abbās), the upper middle cartouche is a bodduh (a magic square), the lower middle cartouche reads: Amal-e Assadollāh (the work of Assadollāh), and the lower cartouche reads: Isfahāni. The inscriptions seem to be later additions to the blade. The crossguard is made of patterned crucible steel and pierced in floral and geometric designs on both sides. The scabbard chape is made of steel. The handle scales are made of bone. The wooden scabbard is a new replacement covered with new leather. The general dimensions of the saber follow many historical examples.
Sasanian Empire was one of the most powerful periods in ancient Iran. Archaeological evidence and... more Sasanian Empire was one of the most powerful periods in ancient Iran. Archaeological evidence and traces, and Sasanian and Post-Sasanian texts show cultural and artistic relations of the Sasanian Empire from the East to the West. However, official Sasanian methods of warfare are one of the most important legacies of the period that have been less studied. These offensive and defensive arms and armor can be analyzed by looking
at the remaining evidence left by kings and officials within the national borders to the lands abroad. Sasanian swords are depicted on rock reliefs, silver dishes, and coins (drachmas and dinars). Although studies have been done on the classification of Sasanian swords shown on rock reliefs, no systematic study on the depiction of Sasanian swords on Sasanian drachms has been done so far. The following paper tries to restudy the subject by comparing the swords depicted on Sasanian coins and compare them to the swords shown on rock reliefs and dishes. Sasanian swords are depicted on different Sasanian royal arts such as Sasanian coins, Sasanian silver dishes, and Sasanian rock reliefs. Different elements will be taken into consideration such as the shape of swords in
general and their method of hanging from the belt in particular. A closer look shows that Sasanian drachmas and dinars show two major types of hanging Sasanian swords via a scabbard slide system: A. hanging the sword in front of the body. B. hanging the sword on the left or the right hip. Additionally, the following paper will compare them to some extant examples of Sasanian swords that are kept in museums and private collections.
Keywords: Sasanian Swords, Rock Reliefs, Silver Works, Coins, Scabbard Slide System, Two-Point Scabbard System, Feather Pattern.
Moshtagh Khorasani, Manouchehr and Nima Arjmandi (2023). Physical and Material Analysis of Highly... more Moshtagh Khorasani, Manouchehr and Nima Arjmandi (2023). Physical and Material Analysis of Highly Curved Iranian Sabers, History of Antique Arms, Researchers 2020: Collection of Scientific Papers, edited by Denys Toichkin, Institute of History of Ukraine NASU, -. Kyiv; Stylos, 2023, - 387 pages, pp. 241-255.
The following article will present some new information on material analysis, reproduction, and mechanical analysis of highly curved Iranian sabers named šamšir. Further, this article will show that Persian šamšir sabers were not only used to cut but to thrust as well. We will use image processing techniques to prove our point of view. As this article show, Persian šamšir sabers vary in curvature, length and weight. Further, the authors argue that each blade has three curvatures and the very specific shape of the blade has a direct impact on its cutting capability. The article will also show that a blade with variable curvature rotating around a pivot point with a zero or nonzero linear velocity will result in the highest ratio of slice to push velocities. The article also discusses the mechanical and chemical properties of šamšir blades such as mechanical properties of the blade material (patterned crucible steel), an analysis of percussion point of these sabers, a chemical analysis of a special glue that is used in these sabers, the structure of their handle, and their geometry. The present article will also show that the very shape and construction of the handle of a Persian šamšir reduces the reaction shock force transferred to the hand of the swordsman upon impact. To prove this point, a simulation using CATiA (Dassault Systèmes SE) and then Abaqus software (Dassault Systèmes SE) will be used. The article will show the mechanical properties of patterned crucible steel and it argues that these blades were quenched and tempered. We will also measure the hardness and the mass density of a sample of a patterned crucible steel blade and compare it to the best antique Tamahagane (pattern welded steel) used in Japanese sword (Katana) and one of the best modern blade steels, i.e. Bohler Uddeholm M390 crucible steel.
Moshtagh Khorasani, Manouchehr (2023). Goharnameh (Book of Jewels) by Mohammad Ben Mansur and its... more Moshtagh Khorasani, Manouchehr (2023). Goharnameh (Book of Jewels) by Mohammad Ben Mansur and its Relevance for the Study of Crucible Steel, History of Antique Arms, Researchers 2020: Collection of Scientific Papers, edited by Denys Toichkin, Institute of History of Ukraine NASU, -. Kyiv; Stylos, 2023, - 387 pages, pp. 223-240.
The following article describes the contents of a Persian book on gems, stones and metals titled Goharnāmeh [Book of Jewels] by Mohammad ben Mansur. There are different books with the same title written by different authors from different centuries. These books describe the properties of different stones such as precious stones, semi-precious stones, minerals, animal products considered as stones such as corals, metals and alloys. The importance of these manuscripts for the study of arms and armor is that most of them provide information on different types of iron and steel, crucible steel patterns, quenching methods and some even on production processes of crucible steel. The following article presents a Goharnāme written by Mohammad ben Mansur for the ruler Ozun Hasan Āq Qoyonlu in the 9th century hijra (15th century CE). The book has two major sections. The first section of the book talks about different types of stones including precious stones, semi-precious stones, stones and minerals. This part consists of twenty parts and a conclusion. The second part of the book introduces different types of metals in eight parts and it has a conclusion as well. The chapter on iron and steel in the second section of the book is very important for the study of arms and armor as it describes properties of these metals, the quenching methods, and different types of crucible steel patterns. This section also talks about another type of alloy named xārčini that was used to make arms and armor.
GLADIUS, 2022
Iranian highly-curved swords, named shamshir (šamšir), reached their maximum curve and popularity... more Iranian highly-curved swords, named shamshir (šamšir), reached their maximum curve and popularity in 16th-17th centuries and remained the most favored sword of choice on the battlefields for Persian armies. Although, there have been considerable research on their materials and forging methods, to our knowledge, there is no scientific report on their overall mechanical performance and no scientific analysis of their exceptional shape. The following article provides a thorough analysis of the high curve of Persian swords and proves that this high curve
provided a maximum cutting ability for a sword and it also enabled certain forms of thrusts which went over and below the shield of the opponent on the battlefield.
Gladius, 2013
Different terms are used in old Persian manuscripts, such as Ta'id Besârat, to define and refer t... more Different terms are used in old Persian manuscripts, such as Ta'id Besârat, to define and refer to crucible or watered steel and different types of swords 1. However, there are few manuscripts that describe the way crucible steel cakes and blades were made such as the manuscript Gŏharnâme 2. The present article deals with the making of crucible steel as described in Persian manuscripts and also with a new reproduction process of making crucible steel as conducted by the Finnish smith Niko Hynninen. Los antiguos manuscritos persas, tales como Ta'id Besârat 3 , emplean diversos términos para definir y referirse al acero de crisol o acero de Damasco y a diversos tipos de espada. Sin embargo, existen pocos manuscritos que describan el modo en que se elaboraban los lingotes y hojas de acero de crisol, entre ellos el manuscrito Gŏharnâme 4. El presente artículo describe el proceso de elaboración del acero de crisol tal y como lo refieren los manuscritos persas, así como una moderna reproducción del mismo realizada por el forjador finlandés Niko Hynninen.
Gladius, 2016
Se describe la empuñadura de karabela como una empuñadura con una guarnición de cruz y un pomo en... more Se describe la empuñadura de karabela como una empuñadura con una guarnición de cruz y un pomo en forma de una cabeza estilizada de un pájaro con más frecuencia similar a un halcón. Se montaba este tipo de empuñadura con largas hojas de sable de caballería. En general se montaba las empuñaduras de karabela con con diferentes tipos de hojas, a menudo con una forma de la hoja curvada de un shamshir persa clásico. Las karabelas más antiguas (de origen turco o basado en modelos turcos) que se conservan en los museos de Polonia, generalmente tienen hojas con un contrafilo llamado yelman. El llamado `sable de halcón` es cercanamente asociado con karabela con su característica principal, una forma característica de un pomo curvo parecido a la cabeza de un halcón y una guarnición de cruz. El principal objetivo del presente artículo es hacer un estudio comparativo sobre las diferentes fuentes sobre los sables y espadas con empuñadura karabela y tratar de establecer un origen de este tipo de ...
Oriental Studies
The following paper also makes a comparative study between some Achaemenid swords kept in the Nat... more The following paper also makes a comparative study between some Achaemenid swords kept in the National Museum of Iran and some western museums, and the akinakai depicted on Achaemenid stone reliefs. Hence, the present paper offers a new classification of Achaemenid akinakai represented on stone reliefs and compares them to some archaeological examples.
The aim of this article is to study the Sassanid armor types and their construction methods based... more The aim of this article is to study the Sassanid armor types and their construction methods based on Sassanid rock reliefs, surviving fragments, armor depicted on Sassanid dishes and stone statues in Iran. The article explains the construction methods of different armor types used by the Sassanids during their rule and how Sassanids influenced the development of armor technology and were influenced by other cultures. Different types of armor used by Sassanids such as mail armor, scale armor, laminated armor (vambraces and greaves), and lamellar armor and their origins are discussed in the article. Hand, arm and leg protection as well as different helmet types used by Sassanids are also analyzed. These include simple bandhelm type, four-part bandhelm type, spangenhelm (strap helmets) type and lamellar helmet type. Different types of shields used by Sassanids are also discussed in the article. Next to archaeological finds, stone and rock reliefs as well as Sassanid iconography are ana...
Revista De Artes Marciales Asiaticas, Jul 18, 2012
El objetivo de este artículo es ofrecer una breve panorámica de las diversas tipologías de un pro... more El objetivo de este artículo es ofrecer una breve panorámica de las diversas tipologías de un producto denominado "Acero de Damasco" y mostrar su belleza a través de ejemplos de armas blancas. A lo largo del presente artículo utilizo indistintamente los términos "acero de Damasco", "acero al agua" y "acero al crisol", explicándolos detalladamente. El acero de Damasco nace a partir de acero elaborado en crisoles, y también se explicarán las diferencias en sus propiedades resultantes tras el proceso. La calidad resultante es vital para producir armas de filo que sean dignas de alabanza. Otra sección de este artículo estudia los centros de producción de acero al crisol, ofreciendo una breve aproximación al tema e incluyendo una discusión sobre el acero de Damasco en los registros históricos. Finalmente, se detalla la clasificación de las propiedades del acero de Damasco a principios de la época contemporánea.
Artificial intelligence plays a crucially important role in our lives today. There are discussion... more Artificial intelligence plays a crucially important role in our lives today. There are discussions about having driverless cars (fully automated cars), the automated hiring process for companies via computer programs only, and human cloning, to name a few technological innovations that will change our lives soon. There are many other technological advances. Many cities are now under camera surveillance to provide more security and safety to the citizens. There are discussions about abolishing money and replacing it with a digital currency only. We already have drones implemented in warfare today, and there are discussions and research about implementing them as robot infantry soldiers in the future. There are discussions about introducing household robots to take care of our everyday chores and do the household. There are discussions about the introduction of driverless cars by 2030, where cars drive autonomously and do not need a human driver. Does it sound like a science fiction movie? If you think about it for a moment, you realize that it does not, and we are heading fast towards a complete digitalization of our lives. Before condoning or condemning the whole process of digitalization, we should be aware that although digitalization makes our lives easier and more convenient, there are many ethical issues involved that need to be addressed. Due to the space issues of the present article in this magazine, I will concentrate on the topic of driverless cars in the first part.
Revista de Artes Marciales Asiáticas, 2014
There are more than twenty different traditional wrestling arts that are practiced in today Iran.... more There are more than twenty different traditional wrestling arts that are practiced in today Iran. One of them which is practiced in the region of great Khorasan province is called <em>košti-ye</em> <em>bā čuxe </em>(<em>bā čuxe </em>wrestling). This wrestling art is performed by wearing knee-length pants and a thick jacket and is famed for its powerful throws and leg trips. The following article deals with the history of…
La principale arme à distance de la période timuride était l'arc composite, un modèle aux courbes... more La principale arme à distance de la période timuride était l'arc composite, un modèle aux courbes accentuées ou un modèle aux extrémités fortement incurvées, plus que ses prédécesseurs. Cette grande courbure est associée aux arcs plus petits, car il permet une tension de l'arc comparativement plus importante.
Les arbalètes sont également documentées, principalement pour être utilisées lors des sièges, car elles sont équipées de bras longs.
All organizations want to achieve their goals. As
consultants, we are constantly confronted with... more All organizations want to achieve their goals. As
consultants, we are constantly confronted with the
questions: What are the factors for a successful
business? What makes a successful leader? For
the most part, the answers to these questions are
expressed by defining a clear mission, establishing
attainable goals, and developing corresponding
strategies. However, having a mission, strategies
and goals and focusing on them are not sufficient
enough to be successful. Moreover, we need each
other to be successful, and this requires establishing
cooperation among members of an organization.
Certaines pièces d’armes et d’armures iraniennes de la période Qâjâr portent les symboles du lion... more Certaines pièces d’armes et d’armures iraniennes de la période Qâjâr portent les symboles du lion et du soleil. Le symbole du lion apparaîssant sur la lame de certains sabres iraniens se rapproche de l'image héraldique européenne d'un lion passant regardant. On trouve parfois au centre des boucliers ou sur les casques d'acier l'image du soleil portant les traits d’un visage humain. S'il est vrai qu'un grand nombre de ces images proviennent de la période Qâjâr, il ne faut pas automatiquement considérer l'emblème du lion et du soleil comme un élément distinctif pour l'identification et l'attribution d'un sabre ou d'une armure à la période Qâjâr. Cependant, il ne faut pas faire de généralisations car, comme on le verra plus loin, les emblèmes picturaux du lion et du soleil sont connus en dehors de la période Qâjâr, comme ceux frappés sur les pièces safavides appelées folus. Le même symbole se trouve également sur la garde (croisière) de certains sabres de la période safavide. Il est important d'examiner les origines de cet emblème afin de comprendre sa véritable signification sur les armes et armures de l'Iran tout en fournissant un moyen supplémentaire d’attribuer une épée ou une armure à une certaine période. Le soleil, la lune et le ciel jouaient un rôle important dans la religion des anciens Iraniens et, par conséquent, étaient représentés comme symboles sur les drapeaux et les étendards (Nayernuri, 1965, p. 1). Vers 4000 avant J.-C., le ciel était représenté sous la forme d'un triangle ou d'une pointe de lance, indiquant le ciel au sommet, à l'est (lever du soleil) et à l'ouest (coucher du soleil) à la base. Cette représentation était d'abord un triangle, puis s'est transformée en pointe de lance (Nayernuri, 1965, p. 1).
Traditionally, it was believed that the responsibility of the management is to maximize profits f... more Traditionally, it was believed that the responsibility of the management is to maximize profits for the shareholders. This view still shared by monetarists holds that the goal of any corporation is to follow the laws and legislation of the country where it operates and then it should maximize the profits as much as it can. This principle advocated in the shareholder value holds that the management has the responsibility to earn the money for the owners or shareholders and let them decide what to do with it. This way the responsibilities of the management are reduced to economic and legal responsibilities. This view is considered as a classical view towards the social responsibility.
KAÜSBED, 2020
The handle of Iranian sword šamšir shows a complicated construction that has not been investigate... more The handle of Iranian sword šamšir shows a complicated construction that has not been investigated scientifically so far. The handle consists of handle scales (āj), rivets (mil-e etesāl), adhesive material (zāj-e sepid), crossguard (bolčāq or mohāfez-e daste), pommel cap (kolāhak) and tangbands (āhanak). On some handles, there are two separate steel plates that are attached to the tang via adhesive materials and rivets as well. To analyze the construction, digital scanners, AutoCAD software (Autodesk Inc.) and X-ray radiography will be used. The following article will show that such a construction is not a haphazard one, but in such a construction, the tang of the sword functions like a spring in a spring and dumper system, and the adhesive material also functions as a dumper and the design may significantly prevent propagation of reaction shock waves to the user's hand. The goal of this study is to show how this system of shock absorption works. Further, for the first time, the components of the adhesive material are analyzed using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and secondary electron microscopy (SEM). Another goal of this study is to find out how this material was made in the past. Based on a recipe from a Persian manuscript on precious stones, jewels and metals titled Javāher al-Sanāye' (Jewels of Crafts), this adhesive material is successfully reconstructed. This article shows the close similarity between components of the adhesive material found in Persian šamšir and the mixture of components as prescribed in the recipe of Javāher al-Sanāye'. İran kılıcı šamšir'in kabzası şimdiye kadar bilimsel olarak araştırılmamış karmaşık bir yapıya sahiptir. Kabzayı oluşturan parçalar; kavrama yan parçaları (āj), miller (mil-e etesāl), yapıştırıcı (zāj-e sepid), balçak (bolčāq veya mohāfez-e daste), kılıç başı (kolāhak) ve pırazvana şeritleri (āhanak). Bazı kabzalarda yapıştırıcılarla ve millerle pırazvanaya iliştirilen iki ayrı çelik plaka vardır. Bu yapıyı incelemek için dijital tarayıcılar, AutoCAD yazılımı (Autodesk Inc.) ve x-ışını radyografisi kullanılmıştır. Aşağıdaki makalede bu yapının gelişigüzel olmadığı, kılıcın pırazvanasının bir yay ve amortisör sistemindeki yay M.Moshtagh KHORASANİ-Nima ARJMANDİ / KAÜSBED, 2020; 26; 725-745 726 gibi işlev yaptığı, yapıştırıcının amortisör işlevi yaptığı ve bu tasarımın, reaksiyon şok dalgalarının kullanıcının eline yayılmasını önemli ölçüde engelleyebileceği gösterilecektir. Bunun yanında ilk kez olarak, enerji dağınımlı x-ışınları görünge gözlemi (EDS) ve ikincil elektron mikroskopisi (SEM) kullanılarak yapıştırıcının bileşenleri incelenmektedir. Ayrıca, değerli taşlar, mücevherler ve metaller hakkındaki Javāher al-Sanāye' (Zanaat Mücevherleri) adlı Farsça bir elyazmasındaki tarife göre bu yapıştırıcı başarılı bir şekilde tekrar üretilmektedir.
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Papers by Manouchehr Moshtagh Khorasani
wrongly titled “the Battle of Ganja” in the National Museum of Iran. However, based on the depictions of arms and armor carried by the Russian troops and also the lack of any European-style arms and armor and uniforms worn by Persian troops, this painting should depict “the battle of Yerevan” (June 1804 CE) and not the battle of Ganja (1826 CE). There are different reasons for this hypothesis. After the arrival of Jaubert and General Gardane on the Gardane Mission (1807–09 CE), a number of military reforms were initiated in Persia. These reforms not only included standardization of issued military swords and weapons but also the introduction of Europeanized unforms. The effects of these reforms are not depicted in this painting as Persian troops are still using their traditional arms and armor and also wearing their traditional attire. Therefore, the painting should refer to an earlier time such as 1804 CE. Further, the painting shows Fath Ali Shāh being involved in the battle scene, which is also an indication of an earlier date as he used to inspect his troops in Soltāniyeh in 1804 CE. It seems that was the only time he actively took part in a military engagement. Additionally, the Rus-
sian officers in this painting are wearing cocked hats and the infantry soldiers are wearing typical grenadier (or fusilier) caps of the period of 1804 CE. Further future research needs to be done on this painting to analyze the inconsistencies of the depictions of Russian uniforms as they are shown in the painting.
at the remaining evidence left by kings and officials within the national borders to the lands abroad. Sasanian swords are depicted on rock reliefs, silver dishes, and coins (drachmas and dinars). Although studies have been done on the classification of Sasanian swords shown on rock reliefs, no systematic study on the depiction of Sasanian swords on Sasanian drachms has been done so far. The following paper tries to restudy the subject by comparing the swords depicted on Sasanian coins and compare them to the swords shown on rock reliefs and dishes. Sasanian swords are depicted on different Sasanian royal arts such as Sasanian coins, Sasanian silver dishes, and Sasanian rock reliefs. Different elements will be taken into consideration such as the shape of swords in
general and their method of hanging from the belt in particular. A closer look shows that Sasanian drachmas and dinars show two major types of hanging Sasanian swords via a scabbard slide system: A. hanging the sword in front of the body. B. hanging the sword on the left or the right hip. Additionally, the following paper will compare them to some extant examples of Sasanian swords that are kept in museums and private collections.
Keywords: Sasanian Swords, Rock Reliefs, Silver Works, Coins, Scabbard Slide System, Two-Point Scabbard System, Feather Pattern.
The following article will present some new information on material analysis, reproduction, and mechanical analysis of highly curved Iranian sabers named šamšir. Further, this article will show that Persian šamšir sabers were not only used to cut but to thrust as well. We will use image processing techniques to prove our point of view. As this article show, Persian šamšir sabers vary in curvature, length and weight. Further, the authors argue that each blade has three curvatures and the very specific shape of the blade has a direct impact on its cutting capability. The article will also show that a blade with variable curvature rotating around a pivot point with a zero or nonzero linear velocity will result in the highest ratio of slice to push velocities. The article also discusses the mechanical and chemical properties of šamšir blades such as mechanical properties of the blade material (patterned crucible steel), an analysis of percussion point of these sabers, a chemical analysis of a special glue that is used in these sabers, the structure of their handle, and their geometry. The present article will also show that the very shape and construction of the handle of a Persian šamšir reduces the reaction shock force transferred to the hand of the swordsman upon impact. To prove this point, a simulation using CATiA (Dassault Systèmes SE) and then Abaqus software (Dassault Systèmes SE) will be used. The article will show the mechanical properties of patterned crucible steel and it argues that these blades were quenched and tempered. We will also measure the hardness and the mass density of a sample of a patterned crucible steel blade and compare it to the best antique Tamahagane (pattern welded steel) used in Japanese sword (Katana) and one of the best modern blade steels, i.e. Bohler Uddeholm M390 crucible steel.
The following article describes the contents of a Persian book on gems, stones and metals titled Goharnāmeh [Book of Jewels] by Mohammad ben Mansur. There are different books with the same title written by different authors from different centuries. These books describe the properties of different stones such as precious stones, semi-precious stones, minerals, animal products considered as stones such as corals, metals and alloys. The importance of these manuscripts for the study of arms and armor is that most of them provide information on different types of iron and steel, crucible steel patterns, quenching methods and some even on production processes of crucible steel. The following article presents a Goharnāme written by Mohammad ben Mansur for the ruler Ozun Hasan Āq Qoyonlu in the 9th century hijra (15th century CE). The book has two major sections. The first section of the book talks about different types of stones including precious stones, semi-precious stones, stones and minerals. This part consists of twenty parts and a conclusion. The second part of the book introduces different types of metals in eight parts and it has a conclusion as well. The chapter on iron and steel in the second section of the book is very important for the study of arms and armor as it describes properties of these metals, the quenching methods, and different types of crucible steel patterns. This section also talks about another type of alloy named xārčini that was used to make arms and armor.
provided a maximum cutting ability for a sword and it also enabled certain forms of thrusts which went over and below the shield of the opponent on the battlefield.
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Les arbalètes sont également documentées, principalement pour être utilisées lors des sièges, car elles sont équipées de bras longs.
consultants, we are constantly confronted with the
questions: What are the factors for a successful
business? What makes a successful leader? For
the most part, the answers to these questions are
expressed by defining a clear mission, establishing
attainable goals, and developing corresponding
strategies. However, having a mission, strategies
and goals and focusing on them are not sufficient
enough to be successful. Moreover, we need each
other to be successful, and this requires establishing
cooperation among members of an organization.
wrongly titled “the Battle of Ganja” in the National Museum of Iran. However, based on the depictions of arms and armor carried by the Russian troops and also the lack of any European-style arms and armor and uniforms worn by Persian troops, this painting should depict “the battle of Yerevan” (June 1804 CE) and not the battle of Ganja (1826 CE). There are different reasons for this hypothesis. After the arrival of Jaubert and General Gardane on the Gardane Mission (1807–09 CE), a number of military reforms were initiated in Persia. These reforms not only included standardization of issued military swords and weapons but also the introduction of Europeanized unforms. The effects of these reforms are not depicted in this painting as Persian troops are still using their traditional arms and armor and also wearing their traditional attire. Therefore, the painting should refer to an earlier time such as 1804 CE. Further, the painting shows Fath Ali Shāh being involved in the battle scene, which is also an indication of an earlier date as he used to inspect his troops in Soltāniyeh in 1804 CE. It seems that was the only time he actively took part in a military engagement. Additionally, the Rus-
sian officers in this painting are wearing cocked hats and the infantry soldiers are wearing typical grenadier (or fusilier) caps of the period of 1804 CE. Further future research needs to be done on this painting to analyze the inconsistencies of the depictions of Russian uniforms as they are shown in the painting.
at the remaining evidence left by kings and officials within the national borders to the lands abroad. Sasanian swords are depicted on rock reliefs, silver dishes, and coins (drachmas and dinars). Although studies have been done on the classification of Sasanian swords shown on rock reliefs, no systematic study on the depiction of Sasanian swords on Sasanian drachms has been done so far. The following paper tries to restudy the subject by comparing the swords depicted on Sasanian coins and compare them to the swords shown on rock reliefs and dishes. Sasanian swords are depicted on different Sasanian royal arts such as Sasanian coins, Sasanian silver dishes, and Sasanian rock reliefs. Different elements will be taken into consideration such as the shape of swords in
general and their method of hanging from the belt in particular. A closer look shows that Sasanian drachmas and dinars show two major types of hanging Sasanian swords via a scabbard slide system: A. hanging the sword in front of the body. B. hanging the sword on the left or the right hip. Additionally, the following paper will compare them to some extant examples of Sasanian swords that are kept in museums and private collections.
Keywords: Sasanian Swords, Rock Reliefs, Silver Works, Coins, Scabbard Slide System, Two-Point Scabbard System, Feather Pattern.
The following article will present some new information on material analysis, reproduction, and mechanical analysis of highly curved Iranian sabers named šamšir. Further, this article will show that Persian šamšir sabers were not only used to cut but to thrust as well. We will use image processing techniques to prove our point of view. As this article show, Persian šamšir sabers vary in curvature, length and weight. Further, the authors argue that each blade has three curvatures and the very specific shape of the blade has a direct impact on its cutting capability. The article will also show that a blade with variable curvature rotating around a pivot point with a zero or nonzero linear velocity will result in the highest ratio of slice to push velocities. The article also discusses the mechanical and chemical properties of šamšir blades such as mechanical properties of the blade material (patterned crucible steel), an analysis of percussion point of these sabers, a chemical analysis of a special glue that is used in these sabers, the structure of their handle, and their geometry. The present article will also show that the very shape and construction of the handle of a Persian šamšir reduces the reaction shock force transferred to the hand of the swordsman upon impact. To prove this point, a simulation using CATiA (Dassault Systèmes SE) and then Abaqus software (Dassault Systèmes SE) will be used. The article will show the mechanical properties of patterned crucible steel and it argues that these blades were quenched and tempered. We will also measure the hardness and the mass density of a sample of a patterned crucible steel blade and compare it to the best antique Tamahagane (pattern welded steel) used in Japanese sword (Katana) and one of the best modern blade steels, i.e. Bohler Uddeholm M390 crucible steel.
The following article describes the contents of a Persian book on gems, stones and metals titled Goharnāmeh [Book of Jewels] by Mohammad ben Mansur. There are different books with the same title written by different authors from different centuries. These books describe the properties of different stones such as precious stones, semi-precious stones, minerals, animal products considered as stones such as corals, metals and alloys. The importance of these manuscripts for the study of arms and armor is that most of them provide information on different types of iron and steel, crucible steel patterns, quenching methods and some even on production processes of crucible steel. The following article presents a Goharnāme written by Mohammad ben Mansur for the ruler Ozun Hasan Āq Qoyonlu in the 9th century hijra (15th century CE). The book has two major sections. The first section of the book talks about different types of stones including precious stones, semi-precious stones, stones and minerals. This part consists of twenty parts and a conclusion. The second part of the book introduces different types of metals in eight parts and it has a conclusion as well. The chapter on iron and steel in the second section of the book is very important for the study of arms and armor as it describes properties of these metals, the quenching methods, and different types of crucible steel patterns. This section also talks about another type of alloy named xārčini that was used to make arms and armor.
provided a maximum cutting ability for a sword and it also enabled certain forms of thrusts which went over and below the shield of the opponent on the battlefield.
https://www.kompetenzcampus.de/en/news/organizational-culture
Les arbalètes sont également documentées, principalement pour être utilisées lors des sièges, car elles sont équipées de bras longs.
consultants, we are constantly confronted with the
questions: What are the factors for a successful
business? What makes a successful leader? For
the most part, the answers to these questions are
expressed by defining a clear mission, establishing
attainable goals, and developing corresponding
strategies. However, having a mission, strategies
and goals and focusing on them are not sufficient
enough to be successful. Moreover, we need each
other to be successful, and this requires establishing
cooperation among members of an organization.
The book consists of the following parts;
1. Introduction: This part provides the historical background of the manuscript, its author, and the topics of the manuscript.
2. Goharnāmeh [Book of Jewels] by Mohammad ben Mansur: This part provides a detailed analysis and comparison of similar books of jewels and gems in Persian and places it in its historical context.
3. Mines and farms/fisheries: This part talks about the geographical locations of mines and pearl fisheries as described in the Goharnāmeh, and interestingly, it measures all these locations from the Persian Gulf, Sri Lanka, Egypt, and other locations in comparison to the geographical location of Canary Islands.
4. Classification of stones and animal products: This section describes all precious stones, semi-precious stones, and other stones, animal products, and metals as described in the book Goharnāmeh, and compares its descriptions to the modern geological and scientific descriptions of these items.
The precious, semi-precious stones, and other stones include: yāqut (ruby, oriental topaz, white sapphire, pleonaste, oriental emerald, sapphire); emerald; peridot; diamond; chrysoberyl cat’s eye; spinel (shades of red, garnet red, yellow, blue, green, brown, orange and black); turquoise (green and blue); chalcedony (agate and carnelian, blue chalcedony and other colors); precious stones resembling yāqut (zircon, garnet, and bādehenj); onyx; magnet; corundite (emery); malachite; lapis lazuli; jade; rock crystal; amethyst; jetstone; rain stone; jaundice stone; limestone; olive stone; eaglestone; blood stone; milk stone; mouse stone; moonstone; color stone; sleep stone; miskal stone; marcasite; manganese; and surmah.
The animal products/stones include: pearl; bezoar stones; and lapis judaicus.
5. Classification of metals: This part provides detailed information on metals and their alloys. Among them it provides information on different types of patterned crucible steel. It also talks about xārčini that was used to make weapons.
The metals include: gold; silver; iron (steel); xārčini; brass; zinc; bronze; and metal alloys.
6. Translation and annotation of Goharnāmeh: This part provides a complete translation and annotation of the whole Goharnāmeh.
7. Conclusion: In this part, the book provides a conclusion and discusses the areas for further future research.
8. References
9. Further readings
Catalog
The catalog provides detailed analysis and measurements of exceptional pieces of arms and armor, such Sassanid sword, different Persian shamshir (one with a karabela hilt), a Persian khanjar dagger with a carved walrus ivory hilt, Persian separ (shield) and a chiseled kolāhxud (helmet), an Indian Sossun Pata, different Indian tulwar, an Indian saber, an Indian court dagger with a jade handle and scabbard fittings of solid gold, Indian kārud with a rock crystal handle, different Ottoman kılıç (pala) and šimšir sabers, and a Hungarian saber with a Persian blade. See
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Dünyada kılıca ve onun tarihine olan bu ilginin aksine Türkiye’de, bu konu hakkında yapılan çalışmalar oldukça yetersizdir. Tarihi kaynak ve arşivlerimizde kılıçla ilgili bilgilerin yetersizliği bunu belirli oranda açıklayabilirse de kılıcı kullanmadaki mahareti yabancılar tarafından da sıklıkla dile getirilen Türklerin, bu silahın tarihine olan ilgisizliği dikkat çekicidir. Son yıllarda yoğunlaşan askeri tarih araştırmaları bu ilgiyi görece arttırmakla birlikte, çalışmalar halen yetersizdir. Bize, kılıç üzerine bir kitap yazma fikrini ve cesaretini veren de kılıç veya silahlar üzerine uzmanlığımız değil; bu silahın tarihinin Türkiye’de hak ettiği oranda incelenmemiş olmasıdır.
Yabancı dillerdeki literatür incelendiğinde, kılıç üzerine yoğunlaşan çalışmaların temelde nerede ve nasıl yapıldığı/imal edildiği sorularına arkeolojik kazı desteğiyle uzun zamandır cevap arandığı görülmektedir. Bunun yanında altı yüzyıl boyunca hüküm süren Osmanlı Devleti’nin kılıçla olan geçmişiyle ilgili yok denecek seviyede bilgi ve kaynağa sahibiz. Kılıçların üzerindeki işaret ve sembollerin bize anlatmak istediklerinin birçoğu ise hala büyük bir sır.
Bu kitabın amacı da kılıç gibi tarihi şekillendiren bir silahın hak ettiği değeri görmesi için mevcut literatüre bir nebze de olsa katkı sağlamaktır. Oldukça farklı çeşitleri bulunan, savaş meydanlarındaki kullanımı yanında çeşitli sembolik anlamları olan bir silah hakkında sınırlamaya gitme zarureti nedeniyle, konu seçiminde Türk ve Osmanlı kılıçları ile Osmanlı Devleti’nin hüküm sürdüğü ve komşu coğrafyalardaki kılıçlar ön plana çıkarılmaya çalışılmıştır. Bunun yanında Türk kültür ve dilinde kılıç; kılıç üretim süreçleri ile Avrupa kılıçlarına da kitapta yer verilmiştir.
Author and Editor: Dr. Manouchehr Moshtagh Khorasani
Co-authors: Marco Briccola, Rainer Daehnhardt, Petr Eckl, Vanna Scolari Ghiringhelli, Bohumil Planka
Forward: Dr. Jiří Mačuda
Publisher: South Moravian Museum in Znojmo
Status: Printed in December 2018
Cover: Hard cover
Number of pages: 258 pages; over 280 colored pictures of artifacts; 22 drawings; 11 period pictures.
Artifacts: 153 items of the collection are analyzed in detail.
Techincal editor: Veronika Bracková
Further collaboration: Dr. Jiří Mačuda, Jindřich Mleziva, Dr. Antonín Reiter
Drawings: Rostislav Hetflaiš, Bohumil Planka
Photographs: Jaroslav Frecer, Veronika Skálová
Historical photographs for division pages provided by: National Museum Prague Náprstek Museum of Asian, African and American Cultures (p. 94, 142, 160, 164)
National Museum Archives (p. 18, 90)
Zemský archiv in Opava, branch Olomouc (p. 14/15)
Graphic design and typesetting: braq design s. r. o.
Print: Tiskárna Helbich, a. s.
Publisher: South Moravian Museum in Znojmo, South Moravian Region
Price: 45,- EUR for the original English version plus shipping costs.
Orders can be taken by contacting: [email protected]
153 items include:
I. OTTOMAN ARMS
The arms from the Ottoman Empire including the Balkans which are analyzed and presented in the catalog compromising 47 items which include: 18 yatağan swords, 1 pala kılıç saber, 2 kılıç sabers, 5 Ottoman sabers with Persian shamshir blades, 2 bıçak knives, 2 Ottoman daggers, 13 Ottoman flintlock guns, 2 Ottoman flintlock pistols and 2 cartridge boxes.
II. CAUCASIAN ARMS
The Caucasian arms which are analyzed are 6 items: 1 curved kindjal and 5 qama.
III. ARAB ARMS AND ARMOR
One Arab saif is also presented.
IV. AFRICA
There are 8 African items in this collection which include 1 sword and 7 daggers.
V. PERSIA/IRAN
Persian arms and armor (23 pieces) compromise 1 khanjar (dagger), 1 kashkul (begging bowl), 1 bāzuband (arm protector), 1 qaddāre (one-edged short sword), 3 qame (double-edged sword), 2 straight shamshir, 2 curved shamshir, 5 tabar (axe), 2 gorz (mace), 1 kolāhkhud (helmet), 3 separ (shield) and 1 neyze (spear).
VI. CENTRAL ASIA
One Central Asian sword is also analyzed here.
VII. INDIA
There are 14 Indian arms and armor analyzed in this collection: 2 shields, 4 katār (push daggers), 4 different daggers, 1 knife kukri, 1 tulwar sword and 2 maces.
VIII. CHINA
A Chinese dao (single edged sword) and a trousse (traveling eating set of a knife and chopsticks) are also presented.
IX. INDONESIA
There are 12 Indonesian items in this collection compromising 10 keris and 2 short swords.
X. JAPAN
There are 40 pieces of Japanese arms and armor in this collection. These include 4 katana, 3 wakizashi, 1 tanto, 6 naginata, 3 yari, 1 yumi bow, 2 kabuto, 3 zanuri kabuto, 8 jingasa, 2 o-yoroi, 1 wakibiki and 6 teppo.
Author: Dr. Manouchehr Moshtagh Khorasani
Publisher: Niloufar Books, Frankfurt am Main
Status:Printed in November 2018
Size: 200 x 302mm, Inner 297 x 210 mm (A4)
Number of pages: 258 pages (142 text with colored pictures and 108 pages with 112 artifacts in full color)
Over 220 pictures in the text part and 750 pictures in the catalog all in full color
Price: EUR 89,-
Orders can be taken
Contact: [email protected]
The book presents a thorough and detailed analysis of the introduction and development of historical firearms in Iran. The present book is a result of years of study on historical Persian manuscripts on firearms making, classification and usage and as well as an analysis of the Persian firearms kept in the Military Museum of Tehran. These artifacts are described, analyzed and presented in the catalogue by showcasing magnificent colored pictures of 100 artifacts which belonged to the personal royal collection of Nassereddin Shah Qajar. The first chapter of the book, titled "Matchlock Muskets", deals with the history of the introduction and development of matchlock muskets in Iran. The next chapter, "Flintlock Muskets", describes the flintlock mechanism and flintlock muskets. Then the third chapter, "Percussion Cap Lock Muskets", analyzes Persian muskets equipped with the percussion cap system. The next chapter, "Pistols in Iran", analyzes Persian flintlock and percussion cap pistols. The following chapter, "Gun and Pistol Accessories", describes the accessories to load the guns and pistols. Chapter six, "Cannons and Rockets", analyzes the history and development of cannons and rockets in Iran. The next chapter titled "Persian Manuscripts on Firearms" offers a complete translation, annotation and explanation of three important Persian manuscripts on firearms. The manuscripts are as follows:
a) An untitled Safavid manuscript on casting bronze cannons - This is the earliest known Persian manuscript on firearms from the Safavid period and deals with casting bronze cannons. This manuscript is kept in the Central Library of the University of Tehran with the number 2085. The end of the manuscript is signed with the inscriptions Kamtarin bande-ye dargāh Soleymān qurči-ye mezrāq (the Lowest Servant of the Court, Soleymān who holds and takes care of a short spear [for the king]). Thus it can be assumed that it is written by Soleymān. The manuscript consists of 51 pages and seventeen drawings.
b) Another manuscript is titled Resālei dar Fešang [Treatise on Rockets] and is written by Mohammad Rezā Tabrizi in 1256 hijra (1840 C.E.) who was a mohandesbāši (head of engineering units). This manuscript is a combination of a translation of two different Congreve manuscripts and the writer translates some parts directly and some parts are written and added by Mohammad Rezā Tabrizi himself as he says that he was under the impression that Congreve did not explain clearly and wanted to hide important aspects. It has ten plates. Although the paintings resemble the paintings of Congreve books on rockets, all soldiers in Tabrizi's book are depicted with Qajar-period uniforms of the Persian army holding the Iranian flag of the lion and the sun. The enemy is shown holding the Ottoman flag and wearing Ottoman uniforms. The manuscript consists of 99 pages.
c) Another Persian manuscript is titled Resāle-ye Qurxāne [Treatise on Arsenal] and is written by Mohammad Bāqer Tabrizi in 1257 hijra (1841 C.E.). This manuscript is kept in the National Library of Iran with the number 1766. The first part consists of several chapters about the gunnery tools for cannons . This part offers a detailed account about how cannons were loaded and shot. Additionally, it provides information about how gunnery tools were made and how they functioned. It also provides information on mortars and howitzers. The second part is about the rockets and their accessories. This part offers valuable information about war rockets and how they were shot. Finally, the third part is about the fireworks that were used during celebrations. The manuscript has 258 pages.
At the end of the book some other important Persian manuscripts on firearms are introduced and explained briefly. The second part of the book has a catalogue describing and showcasing 112 examples of Persian firearms with colored pictures. These consist of matchlock muskets (26 examples starting from the ones made during the Shah Abbas period with the help of the Shirley brothers), flintlock muskets (26 examples) and percussion cap muskets (13 examples), flintlock pistols (5 examples) and percussion cap pistols (12 examples), bronze and iron cannons (11 examples), swivel guns (4 examples), mortars (2 examples), howitzers (3 examples) and gun accessories (10 examples of gunpowder and primer flasks, and gunpowder measure). The first part of the book has 220 pictures accompanying the text. The catalogue has over 400 colored pictures on 112 historical arms and armor from Iran. 100 items are from the Military Museum of Tehran (Saa'd Abad Palace Museum) and 12 items from the Military Historical Museum of Artillery in St. Petersburg (Russian Federation).
The Streshinsky collection of antique arms and armor contains 140 items from different Muslim countries spread over a wide geographical areas. These items can be divided into 32 pieces from North, West and East Africa (items from Algeria, Morocco, Sudan, Western Sudanic Africa, Sahara, Somalia and Ethiopia), 9 items from the Arabian Peninsula (items from Saudi Arabia, Oman and Yemen) and 1 item from Iraq, 29 items from the Ottoman Empire, 4 items from Caucasus, 18 items from Iran and 3 items from Afghanistan, 42 items from India and 2 items from Indonesia. A closer investigation and analysis of the pieces in Streshinskiy collection show the international trade and exchange that has been taking place among nations for centuries. As Persian crucible steel blades were highly regarded and revered among many nations, there is no surprise to find Indian swords with tulwar handles fitted with magnificent Persian shamshir blades made of crucible steel (see items 121 and 122). Many Arab warriors also adored the quality of Frankish (European) swords and hence one can one Arab swords with European military sword blades (see item 40 and 7). There are imported French pistols which were adjusted for the Algerian market and inscribed with Arabic scripts (see item 16), Ottoman pistols with French designs (see items 52, 54 and 69) and a Caucasian flintlock musket equipped with a Persian barrel (see item 75). There is also a Corsican vendetta knife made for the Ottoman market with the surface of its blade etched to imitate the pattern of welded steel (see item 55)."
This collection of scientific papers based on materials of the First International conference on weaponology held in Kyiv,
Ukraine, February 16–19, 2014.
Editorial Board: Ph.D., Prof. M. Dmytriienko (chair), Ph.D., Prof., Correspondent Member of NASU H. Boriak, Ph.D. Ya. Ishchenko, Ph.D. O. Popelnytska, Ph.D. V. Prokopenko, Ph.D. D. Toichkin, Ph.D. V. Tomazov.
Compiler: Ph.D. Denys Toichkin.
ISBN 978-966-02-7475-4
THIS IS A SHORT DEMO VERSION
Co-authors: Denys Toichkin, Iryna Forostyan, Vitalii Shlaifer, Vadyym Dobryansky, Vladimir Berezhinsky, Leonid Bobrov, Katerina Valentyrava, Michael Gorelik, Bohdan Hrynchyshyn, Volodymyr Hutsul, Victor Kobets, Oleh Malchenko, Andrii Paniv, Serhii Pivovarov, Vitalii Kalinichenko, Olena Popelnytska, Volodymr Prokopenko, Oleh Savchuk, Evhen Sivachenko, Alexander Strelchenko, Ann feuerbach, Tomasz Ciesielski, Natalya Cherkes
What is the World Prize for the Book of the Year?
Notwithstanding the staggering development and variety of the mass media, books are still the most authentic and commendable means of transfering and promoting the culture and the most conspicuous symbol of cultural dynasim. The loftly status of the pen and the sublime rank of writing are continuously respected by the authorities throughout the world. As a system adhering to Islamic instructions with rich Iranian and Iranian culture, the Islamic Republic of Iran considers itself committed to uphold preserve the sacred realm of the pen and support and extol the men of learning. In order to perform this serious duty, the Ministry of Culture and Islamic Republic of Iran" in 1983, and "The World Prize for the Islamic Republic of Iran" in 1993, with the aim of selecting and introducing international books, and honoring their creators as thy have elevated the general knowledge and culture, and have developd public familiarity with written heritage. Every year, according to this plan books published within the year before in countries other than Iran in various languages are reviewed and the President's special Plaque of Commemoration and valuable prizes will be awarded to the authors.
The leading authority on traditional Persian fighting arts is Dr. Monouchehr Mostagh Khorasani, a multi-lingual consultant, martial artist, historical researcher, award-winning author and founder of Niloufar Books. I contacted him in order to gain an insight into Razmafzar – historical Persian martial arts.
Deutsches Klingenmuseum Solingen, November 19-21, 2015
Objectives
Classification of firearms
Persian manuscripts on cannons and firearms
- An untitled Safavid manuscript on casting bronze cannons by Soleymān qurči-ye mezrāq
- Resālei dar Fešang [Treatise on Rockets] by Mohammad Rezā Tabrizi
- Resāle-ye Qurxāne [Treatise on Arsenal] Mohammad Bāqer Tabrizi in 1257 hijra (1841 C.E.).
Matchlock system
Flintlock system
Percussion cap system
Patterns of welded steel on Persian barrels
Decoration methods
Persian pistols
Gun accessories: Primers flasks and powder flasks
Weapons shot from a frame: Persian cannons
Ten other Persian manuscripts on firearms
Conclusion
Questions and answers
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The book "Arms and Armor from Iran: the Bronze Age to the End of the Qajar Period" is the result of years of research in the field of Iranian arms and armor, illustrating for the first time a selected array of Iranian arms and armor from ten Iranian museums: the Military Museum Tehran, the Military Museum Shiraz, the Military Museum Bandar Anzali, the National Museum of Iran in Tehran, the Museum Reza Abbasi in Tehran, the Niavaran Palace in Tehran, the Melat Museum in Tehran, the Sabz Museum in Tehran, the Pars Museum in Shiraz, and the Naderi Museum in Mashad. One of the important features of these artifacts is that many bronze items come from controlled excavations, yet some are items confiscated from smugglers on illegal excavations. In addition, much of the swords, arms and armor have been handed down from one generation to the next and thus are in excellent condition. The book also contains some selected items from private collections in Europe and the USA. Each artifact is meticulously studied and cross referenced with other existing pieces. The basic tenet of the research is to examine the weapons within their cultural settings. The reader is introduced to the topic with a general overview of Iranian history with particular emphasis on Iranian military history. The research has been extensive with over 550 sources consulted. The sources are not only based on international publications on the development of arms and armor in Iran but also the research of Iranian scholars in the field of military history and arms and armor. Many secondary Iranian sources on art, history, and military history are also included as well as the primary period sources.
Contents of the Talk
1) Introduction:
a) Objectives
b) Research hypothesis
2) The Iranian cultural influence in the region and the Iranian search for independence
a) Iranian cultural sphere and language
b) Independence movements in the north and in the Khorassan region
and their subsequent influence on the military tactics
3) Copper, copper alloyed, and bronze weapons
a) Casting bronze: different methods
b) Bronze and iron weapons from Luristan and northern parts of Iran
4) Median and Achaemenian daggers and swords
a) The Median and Persian akenakes (short sword)
b) Other types of edged weapons
5) Parthian daggers and swords
6) Sassanian daggers and swords
7) The development of double-edged straight swords to highly-curved swords in Iran
8) Pulad-e johardar (watered steel)
a) Forging watered steel
b) Different patterns of watered steel
9) Some decoration methods on Iranian arms and armor
a) Gold inlaying and overlaying
b) Carved ivory handles
c) Enameling
d) Silver filigree
e) Chiseling
10) Conclusion and future research
11) Questions and answers
The exhibition was held by the Cultural Institute of Bonyad in Tehran from February 16 to March 02, 2011.
[1]Entexāb-e Resāle-ye Qŏsiye Tasnif-e Kapur Čandﺍﻧﺘﺨﺎﺏﺮﺴﺎﻠﻪﻗﻮﺴﻴﻪﺘﺼﻧﻳﻑﻜﭘﻮﺭﭼﻨﺪ.
[2]This collection was given as a present [gift] by Mr. Hasan Ali Qaffāri (Mo'āvenoldolleh) to the Central Library of the University of Tehrān.
Another Persian manuscript dedicated to the descriptions of wrestling techniques is the Tumār-e Puryā-ye Vali (Scroll of Puryā-ye Vali) that is probably from the Safavid period (1502-1722 C.E.). Puryā-ye Vali was an Iranian champion who was not only famed for his wrestling capabilities but also for following the principles of javānmardi (chivalry). There are many accounts describing how the champions helped the poor, the elderly and the children. This scroll is most probably from the Safavid period, has a length of three and half meters and a width of seventeen centimeters. The beginning of the scroll is missing. Part of the text contains the genealogy of Puryā-ye Vali that seems to be incomplete. Unfortunately, the manuscript mentions only the names of wrestling techniques and does not describe the application of those wrestling moves. In the manuscript the term xiz is used to refer to the wrestling student. Note that one distinguishes between pasxiz (the student who wrestles at the end) and pišxiz (the student who wrestles as the first). The author of the text made some mistakes in different parts of the text. There are forty seven wrestling techniques mentioned in the text, but in fact they comprise only forty six techniques as the technique gorg is mentioned twice in the text. The author also makes mistakes in numbering the wrestling students:
The chest, belly, sides and back up to the shoulders are protected by overlapping steel plates facing upward to defend against spear thrusts executed by the enemy infantry. The plates are integrated in a mail body armor made of riveted mail rings. For a similar Ottoman Turkish mail armor with integrated small steel plates for the chest, abdomen and back protection see Stone (1999, pp. 37-38), Glossary of the Construction, Decoration and Use of Arms and Use of Arms and Armor in all Countries and in all Times. Originally Published in 1934. Mineola: Dover Publications.
"The complete description for the armor is kurenai-itodoshi nakajiro haramaki, which means, it is made of golden plates with red cords. In the middle some white cords are also used. In the Azuchi-Momoyama period [1573-1600], the tosei gusoku or "modern armor" was widely used but the commanders still used haramaki and do maru as traditional status symbols. Supposedly this armor haramaki was used by Toyotomi Hideyori (National Museum of Tokyo)".
The State Hermirage Museum in Sankt Petersburg has a marvelous collection of Indian armor which will be presented as follows:
Dr. Manouchehr Moshtagh Khorasani
A Story of Reconstruction - Parts I and II
1. General Information About the Reichsschwert
The Reichsschwert, the sword of St. Maurice (see Oakshott, 1991:56), is kept in Weltliche Schatzkammer in Vienna, Austria. In German literature, this sword is known as the Reichsschwert (The Sword of Empire or, freely translated, the Coronation Sword) (see Schulze-Dörrlamm, 1995; although it should be noted that Seitz, 1965:140-141 also calls this sword the sword of Saint Maurice). In the following article, I will adhere to the German term Reichsschwert and use it consistently. Oakshott (1991:56) classifies the Reichsschwert in his classification as Type XI with a pommel type B and a long, slender cross. Additionally, he adds that the blade is 95.3 cm and dates it to 1040-1120 A.D.