Ali-Asghar Mirfattah, the head of the team, said that the artifact is actually a divided half-column which was placed at the opening of a well. The full column was definitely used in one of the structures of the dome complex, but its original location can only be determined after comprehensive study of the whole structure, he added.
He also noted that the art of plasterwork was at its peak during the Ilkhanid dynasty, adding that the unique arabesque designs found on the column warrant further study. Several examples of the same arabesque designs can also been seen on the second floor of the dome, he stated.
“Archaeologists have been able to discover the northern gate, as well as several rare artifacts in the region during the recent excavation,” Mirfattah said.
Soltaniyeh is the early 14th-century mausoleum of the eighth Ilkhanid ruler of Iran, Oljeitu (Mohammad Khudabanda). It is situated 26 kilometers (16 miles) southeast of Zanjan. The tomb's dome, 52 meters (171 feet) in height, is the tallest in the Islamic world.
RM/AS
End
MNA