Tehran Museum Hosts Exclusive Conference Showcasing the Art of Traditional Glassware

Join us at the “Welcome to Glass Era” conference, an exciting event dedicated to exploring the intricate world of glass art and science. Scheduled for May 19 at the esteemed Glass and Ceramic Museum of Iran, also referred to as the Abgineh Museum, this gathering promises to be an enlightening experience for art enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The Abgineh Museum, in collaboration with the Iran University of Art, aims to delve into the multifaceted aspects of glass, discussing its artistic, scientific, and cultural significance in Iran and surrounding civilizations. According to Navid Salehvand, the manager of the museum, this specialized conference will feature a series of lectures by distinguished experts in the field.

The event will showcase a range of topics, each highlighting the rich history and contemporary relevance of glass. Here are some of the lectures you can look forward to:

• Masoumeh Zamani Sa’dabadi: “From Heart of the Soil to the Pinnacle of Art”
• Mohammad Amin Emami: “Transparent Alchemy”
• Mohammad Sadr: “Glass Instruments in Medical and Pharmaceutical Texts from the Early Islamic Centuries to the Safavid Period”
• Somayyeh Noghani: “Studying the Role of Interdisciplinary Sciences in Protecting Historical Glass”

In addition to these informative sessions, Navid Salehvand will present his own lecture titled “An Essay on the Evolution of the Glassmaking Art in Iran.” This unique perspective will offer insights into the development of glassmaking practices throughout Iranian history.

The conference will take place at Kiarostami Hall from 1 PM to 4 PM, and entrance is free for the public. This accessibility emphasizes the museum’s commitment to sharing knowledge and fostering appreciation for glass art among all visitors.

The Abgineh Museum itself is a treasure trove of artistic heritage, featuring an extensive collection of glasswork, brickwork, plasterwork, and mirror work. These artifacts span from the 2nd millennium BC to modern times, all housed within a stunning Qajar-era building constructed between 1789 and 1925.

One of the museum’s highlights is its two-story octagonal structure, which beautifully merges traditional Iranian architectural elements with 19th-century European design motifs. Originally built for the prominent politician Ahmad Qavam, known as Qavam-ol-Saltaneh, this architectural gem serves as both a museum and a historical landmark. Located just a short walk north of the National Museum of Iran on Si-e Tir Street, the museum is easily accessible for visitors.

As the conference approaches, attendees can look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of the art and science behind glass. The discussions will not only illuminate the historical significance of glass but also explore its contemporary applications and the importance of preservation efforts in this field.

In summary, the “Welcome to Glass Era” conference at the Abgineh Museum is set to be a landmark event that celebrates the intricate relationship between glass art and science. With a lineup of expert speakers and free public access, this is an opportunity not to be missed for anyone interested in the cultural heritage of glass in Iran.

Whether you are an art lover, a student, or simply curious about the fascinating world of glass, this conference promises to inspire and educate. Mark your calendars for May 19, and join us in this unique celebration of glass and its enduring legacy.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Abgineh Museum for an enlightening experience that pays tribute to the artistry and innovation of glassmaking.