Emulation of Stone Material And Brick Workmanship in Seljuk Era Architecture

Abstract

In the annals of architectural history, emulation and imitation stand as a prevalent modus operandi, manifesting in both structural systems and decorative elements. The conceptual underpinnings of architectural elements such as carriers, arches, windows and domes within the structural system have been evaluated through the lens of spatialmetaphysical understanding. The emulation of materials can also be attributed to the economic constraints experienced by architects and builders, who sought to imitate costly construction and ornamental materials. One such example is found in the Seljuk Age architecture of Iran and Anatolia, as evidenced by the Divriği Kale Mosque and the Urmia Se Kumbet crown gates, which created a significant impact on their respective periods by emulating brickwork with stone. The portal decoration of the Divriği Kale Mosque, built by Mengücekli Sultan Abu’l-Muzaffer Şahinşah in 1180/81, is an example of this. The Turks were able to use brick material effectively and, in some cases, even gave the appearance of brick to stone, which is relatively difficult to process in these buildings. This is an understanding that goes beyond mere imitation. Some of the stones used in the portal decoration of the Divriği Kale Mosque were formed in the carvingrelief technique. Geometric patterns and star motifs were given the appearance of brick with the incised technique. The stones forming the star geometric patterns and inscriptions on the portal of the Urmia Se Kumbet, built in 1184/85, are in the form of separate pieces like bricks and in brick sizes. This unique example draws attention in Iran, where brick is the main construction material. Although it is stated in the studies on the subject that the decoration method of the portal of the Divriği Kale Mosque is a sign of the transition from brick material to stone for the Seljuk Age architecture in Anatolia, it is understood that there is a different interpretation for this example. The Divriği Kale Mosque and Urmiye Se Kumbet portal have been analysed and compared on a regular basis, providing explanations for the use of ornamental materials. This practice of emulation in Seljuk artefacts from different geographies, such as Urmia and Divriği, has resulted in a range of propositions and conclusions. The stone ornamental workmanship, which is rarely seen in Seljuk architectural ornamentation, has led to a debate on tradition and innovation.

Citation: Yelen, Resul (2025). “Emulation of Stone Material And Brick Workmanship in Seljuk Era Architecture”, Erdem, December, Issue:89, pp. 237-276