A moraqqa refers to a collection of various arts pieces, including calligraphy, paintings, illustrations, gilding (illumination), and photographs, which are joined together in a specific manner. Due to their complex technical and artistic structure, moraqqas are subject to the most damage and they need specialized examination, care, and treatment. This research studies the pathology of a number of moraqqas from the Central Library of the University of Tehran. These arts include albums, paintings, and calligraphy. The present study examines the impact of external and internal stimuli that lead to various damages and ultimately the destruction of the work. Identifying and examining these factors and damages greatly helps to prevent the spread of damage and ultimately preserve this valuable art. This research is based on a quantitative study and qualitative analysis of the damages present in calligraphy, painting, and moraqqa albums, using library and field methods. The findings of the present study show that changes in standard light, heat, and humidity, incorrect restorations, cause various chemical reactions, resulting in oxidation and acidification of the work. The new compounds resulting from chemical processes accelerate the acidification of the paper, the degradation of its cellulose texture, the collapse of the colors of the images, and ultimately the destruction of the work. Also, physical damages caused by pressure forces during use and transportation cause tearing of paper connections and spillage of color compounds.
Bozorgzade T. Pathology of a number of Moraqqas from the Central Library and Documentation Center of the University of Tehran. Golestan-e Honar 2025; 9 (2) :45-25 URL: http://golestanehonar.ir/article-1-497-en.html