bricks

Learn More About Bricks

The home is the first architectural space that every human perceives at birth, and brick is often the first building material we come into contact with. Throughout the history of the world, architectural spaces have served specific purposes, aiming to convey their intent across societies and various levels of thought in a nearly universal way. Bricks, as an integral part of global architecture, have played a significant role in human life since the dawn of civilization. Historically, bricks referred to clay tablets on which government decrees or orders were inscribed. These writings were made permanent by firing the clay, preserving the inscriptions for posterity. However, it remains unclear when clay bricks were first used by humans.

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Construction and Clay Bricks Throughout History

It is believed that early humans discovered the properties of bricks by observing how clay near their hearths hardened when exposed to heat, becoming stronger than the surrounding soil. This observation likely led to the development of brick-making techniques. Clay bricks have been used as a building material since ancient times. In Iran, the use of bricks as a construction material has a long and storied history.One of the most famous ancient structures built with bricks is the Taq Kasra (Arch of Ctesiphon). Another example is the floor of the corridor in the Jameh Mosque of Isfahan, which is paved with bricks originally used during the Sassanid era for constructing fire temples. Overall, the use of bricks in Iranian history has been extensive, with countless structures, including fire temples, mosques, residential buildings, and more, constructed using this material.

Modern Use of Bricks

Today, with the rise in population density and the construction of multi-story buildings, bricks are no longer used in the structural framework of such buildings, as steel or concrete skeletons are now preferred. However, bricks are still widely used for facades, as well as in certain parts of interiors, such as walls or decorative spaces, where they are left exposed to create a visually appealing design.

The History and Manufacturing of Bricks in Iran

The history of bricks in Iran dates back to ancient times, where the art of brickwork has played a significant role across all periods. This was particularly notable during the remarkable Seljuk era, when bricks were widely used in the construction of various structures, ranging from caravanserais to water reservoirs, royal buildings, mausoleums, and mosques. For instance, the two Kharaqan Towers in Qazvin feature over thirty types of brickwork designs, accompanied by stunning arched decorations and embossed Kufic inscriptions.

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The Art of Brickwork During the Ilkhanid Period

An exceptional example of Ilkhanid brickwork is the magnificent geometric dome of Soltaniyeh, an extraordinary and artistic architectural masterpiece.

The Art of Brickwork During the Timurid Period

The Timurid era is renowned for its impressive brickwork, such as the beautifully designed Jameh Mosque of Qa’en and the tower and mausoleum of Akhanjan in the outskirts of Tus near Mashhad.

The Art of Brickwork During the Safavid Period

The Safavid period produced some of the most awe-inspiring architectural works in Iran, including the Si-o-Se Pol (33-Arch Bridge) and the Allahverdi Khan Bridge, both of which showcase the exceptional use of bricks in their construction and artistic embellishment.

The Art of Brickwork During the Afsharid and Zand Periods

Significant brickwork from this era includes the Shabestan (prayer hall) and the Vakil Mosque, with their vaulted ceilings, as well as the Vakil Bazaar and the Karim Khan Citadel in Shiraz. During this time, particularly in Fars Province, a wide variety of intricate and beautiful brick patterns were created.

The Art of Brickwork During the Qajar Period

The chiseling technique flourished during the Qajar era, as seen in structures such as:

The Bazaar and Grand Chahar-Suq (intersection) in Kerman
The Bazaar of Arak
The Hajeb-od-Dowleh Arcade in the Tehran Bazaar
The Haj Hossein Arcade in Kashan

The Qajar period was marked by an abundance of fine brick craftsmanship, reflecting the creativity and skill of Iranian artisans in shaping and decorating urban architectural spaces.