Shahaboddin Tasdiqi, Mohammadali Khanmohammadi, Abbas Tarkashvand,
Volume 14, Issue 4 (Winter 2025)
Abstract
aims: In this article, Shamsiya of Yazd, a complex of the 8th century A.H, is examined through the lens of two historical texts "Tarikh-e Yazd" (by Ja’fari) and "Tarikh-e Jadid-e Yazd" (by Kateb) - both from the 9th century. The differences between these 2 descriptions and with the remains of the building, provides a framework for understanding this building and its perception in the past.
Methods: This article, using the historical-interpretive method, first deals with the identification of the Shamsiya complex in the Waqfname (endowment letter) of Jame’ Al-Khairat, and then compares the descriptions of Ja’fari and Kateb with each other and with the Waqfname and building itself. Secondly, it will list the differences among descriptions. Finally, considering social backgrounds and textual context, it will recognize the Shamsiya collection and the way it was looked upon.
Findings: The main difference between Jafari's text and Kateb's about Shamsiya is the type of reference to decorative details and water supply corridors. Also, while the texts of the 9th century mention two madrasas in this complex, only one madrasa is mentioned in Jame’ Al-Khairat. There are other minor differences between them also.
Conclusion: The key to understand the differences lies in two authors' different perspectives; While Ja'fari pays attention to the whole building and the surface water passages, Kateb weighs more to the decorative detail and underground water. Also, the difference between the social background of the 9th and the 8th century has caused the building of Dar al-Siyadeh to gradually become "Madrasa".
