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Praise and satire: The Chronogram of the Heydariyeh Caravanserai in Dehbid
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Mohammad Sadegh Mirzaabolghasemi *   |
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Abstract: (21 Views) |
This article examines the historical contexts surrounding the utilization of a chronogram (māddeh-tārīkh) commemorating the construction of a caravanserai along the Shiraz-Isfahan route during the Qajar period. Situated in Dehbid, Fars Province, this edifice is referenced in historical texts as either "Heydarieh" or "Ezz al-Molk," although it is presently predominantly identified as the Dehbid Caravanserai. This caravanserai was built by Haji Mirza Agha Khan-e Ezz al-Molk (d. 1330 AH / 1912 AC) on the site of a ruined Safavid caravanserai structure that had remained in the area. Haji Mirza Agha Khan Ezz al-Molk, son of Haji Mirza Mahdi Khan (d. 1271 AH / 1855 AC), belonged to the Qavam al-Molk Shirazi family. According to oral traditions, his unsuccessful and incomplete pilgrimage to Karbala became the impetus for constructing this caravanserai. The Dehbid Caravanserai follows a four-iwan plan, with its core structure built of brick. The northern, southern, and eastern facades each contain six chambers, while the western facade features eight. The entrance is located on the eastern side, flanked by two short circular towers at its corners—one constructed of stone and the other of brick.
The construction of this caravanserai was ostensibly completed in 1324 AH (1906 AD), prompting several Shirazi poets, including Mohammad Hossein Shoaʿ Shirazi (Shoaʿ al-Molk), to compose chronograms for the occasion. Shoaʿ's chronogram is exceptional for its dual nature, combining praise (madh) and satire (hajv) directed at the patron. The extant correspondence of Shoaʿ al-Molk references this literary duality, offering insights pertinent to Iran's cultural and architectural history. This article utilizes primary historical sources, particularly the manuscripts of Mohammad Hossein Shoaʿ Shirazi, and employs a historical and analytical research methodology integrating library-based and field studies. The Dehbid Caravanserai is registered as a National Heritage Site of Iran under No. 4540.
The historical date of the Heydariyeh Caravanserai in Dehbid is recorded as Moharram 1324 AH (January 1906 AD) in its inscription, yet it bears the name of Mohammad Ali Shah Qajar, who ascended the throne on 24 Dhu al-Qiʿdah 1324 AH (December 1906). This discrepancy confirms the inscription could not have been created prior to his accession. The chronogram on the inscription also corresponds to this year and was composed by Mirza Abbas Sahab Tehrani (Muayid al-Shuʿara).
Evidence suggests Mirza Agha Khan Ezz al-Molk, the patron, commissioned multiple poets -including Heydar Ali Nava and Mohammad Hossein Shoaʿ al-Molk - to draft chronograms for the caravanserai. Shoaʿ al-Molk’s proposed chronogram equates to 1325 AH (1907 AD), and his correspondence with Ezz al-Molk and Mohammad Kazem Khan Muayid al-Sultan in early 1325 AH (1907 AD) reveals discussions about the caravanserai’s name, verse count, and the inclusion of Mohammad Ali Shah’s title. However, his verses demonstrate no awareness of the name or precise construction date.
Despite attempting to defend his chronogram by critiquing others’ work Shoaʿ al-Molk failed to secure the patron’s approval. This failure stemmed primarily from his negligence in timely composition and submission, as acknowledged in his munshaʾāt (epistolary writings). His subsequent, satirically styled chronogram reflects his frustration over this rejection.
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| Keywords: Heydariyeh Caravanserai, Chronogram, Inscription, Mohammad Hossein Shoaʿ Shirazi, Dehbid (Fars), Qajar Era |
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
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