Recognition of Space in the Architecture of Sheikh Safi al-Din Ardabili's Mausoleum

Abstract

Aesthetics is used for better understanding objects and changing perspectives, and in Islamic philosophy, it is directly related to religious principles and beliefs. Therefore, examining and analyzing the principles of aesthetics for understanding culture and art, especially in architectural studies, can be crucial. Spaces in Islamic architecture can be summarized in ten indicators: unity in multiplicity, purposefulness, harmony, geometric values, hierarchy, limits and boundaries, clarity, integrity, ease and fluidity, light and color, reflection and symbolism, and symbolism. On the other hand, the tomb of Sheikh Safi al-Din Ardabili is one of the most important works of Safavid architecture and an exquisite example of Islamic architecture. Thus, through an aesthetic reading of the architectural space in the tomb of Sheikh Safi al-Din Ardabili and examining the ten indicators in various spaces of this complex, the researcher reached the following conclusions: among the ten indicators, geometric values, light and color, hierarchy, purposefulness, and unity in multiplicity were present in creating all spaces of this complex, derived from the thoughts of its architects in different eras. Overall, after examining the tomb of Sheikh Safi, as a unique and complete example of a work in Iranian Islamic architecture, it can be acknowledged that for assessing the aesthetics of spaces in any Islamic architectural work, one can benefit from the mentioned ten indicators.