A Traditional Narrative on the Origin, Design and Climatic Imperative of Coloured Glass Lattice Panels and Orsi Windows in Persia

This research was inspired by the absence of literature regarding coloured glass lattice panels and Orsi windows as architectural, climatic and aesthetic elements of traditional Iranian design. The main objective of this research was to introduce and investigate Orsi integrated dwellings and window-morphology, to recognize whether or not the development of traditional and uniform Persian windows into enlarged and detailed Orsi windows, believed to have begun from the 17th century forward, was motivated by such catalysts as advancements in building technology, the availability of crafting materials, cultural influences, and artistic aspirations. This investigation was made possible through an interrogation of data from a variety of sources, including architectural, visual and archival materials. Due to a scarcity of architectural and historical evidence from the Safavid era, the outcome of this research was a clear indication that coloured glass lattice panels and Orsi windows confined to religious buildings and royal palaces during the Safavdi period, were largely features of luxurious mansions of the 19th century Qajar era, especially those in city of Tehran, featuring several Qajar palaces and mansions. Furthermore, this research concluded that construction of large-scale coloured glass lattice panels and Orsi windows was not suitable or inspired by local climate in Persia; but through a largely modified traditional architectural design, coloured glass lattice panels and Orsi windows became integral parts of Persian dwellings, where beauty was preserved, and climatic comfort was maintained. The desired outcome of this research was to promote and document coloured glass lattice panels and Orsi windows as artefacts in the historical, vernacular form of Persian architecture.