The Small Sanctuary
Within the shrine are two sanctuaries containing the mausolea. The interior of the smaller one, shown
above, is being extensively restored and demonstrates admirably the way in which the square layout of the
chamber is converted via an octagon into a sixteen sided polygon which supports the dome. This type of
structure is known as "chahar taq" or four-arched and is a pre-Islamic structural
device, possibly of Sassanid origin. The conversion to an octagon is done by means of "squinches", one of
which is seen clearly in the picture.
The painted inscription below the dome probably dates from the time of the shrine's construction, but the
decorative arabesques on the ceiling were probably added later when the second, smaller dome was
erected in 1670 and the simple but striking mosaic patterns were set in
place. These patterns are virtually identical with those on the octagonal dome of the tomb of Baba Rokn Al-Din.
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Entrance
Mosques
and Shrines
Isfahan
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20-January-95
