Study and Identification of Botanical Knowledge in the Conservation of Historical Artifacts Based on Farhang-e Jahāngiri (11th Century AH)

Abstract

In ancient texts, there are numerous references to various arts and crafts. Unfortunately, these valuable sources receive little attention today; however, by studying these texts, one can identify and analyze plants and, with minimal cost and through the use of natural resources, effectively control pests and prevent damage, thereby achieving optimal results. Among such sources is Farhang-e Jahāngiri, which dates to the Qajar period. The book Farhang-e Jahāngiri, written by Anjavi Shirazi, is one of the enduring cultural, historical, and scientific works of the 11th century AH (corresponding approximately to the 17th century CE). It contains extensive information on plants and their diverse applications in daily life and traditional medicine. In this study, using Afifi’s edited version, a comprehensive analysis and classification of the plants discussed in the text has been carried out. The aim of this extensive investigation is to identify the plants relevant to the field of conservation—including physical, chemical, and biological preservation—within Farhang-e Jahāngiri, and to examine their documented uses. From the perspective of results, this research is applied in nature, and the research data are collected through library and documentary methods. In addition to identifying plants associated with the conservation of paper-based artifacts, the presence of dialects, linguistic variations, and multiple plant names within a single region—on the one hand—and the similarities of terms shared across two or more countries and regions—on the other—have resulted in situations where words and expressions differ in appearance but share a single underlying meaning. For example, the term āzād is also known as sarv (cypress), susan (lily), arjan (oak), or bādām-e derakhtī (almond tree). Similarly, moshkedāneh is referred to as so‘d in Arabic, moteh in Hindi, and is also known by the name ānesteh. Knowledge of such hidden linguistic equivalences can significantly assist researchers in the conservation field by helping them understand plant applications and identify their various names across different regions.