Conceptual Interpretation of the Nishapur Third and Fourth Century AH Buff Pottery Motifs by Focusing on Zoroastrianism

Pottery is one of the art products through which one can discern the social conditions, lifestyle, culture, and religion of the targeted society, as it closely connects with people’s lives. Based on the conducted excavations, third- and fourth-century AH potteries are among the most creative artifacts of the early Islamic period. These works were neither known in previous eras nor continued to be produced in later centuries. Various pottery samples have been discovered in Nishapur, giving rise to different theories about their motifs. However, the theories have yet to present valid and sufficient evidence. The research questions are: What themes inspired the motifs of the Nishapur third- and fourth-century AH buff potteries? Did pre-Islamic culture and ideologies influence them? After studying historical books, examining a wide range of the Nishapur pottery motifs, and analyzing them, an attempt was made to interpret the conceptual meanings of the pottery motifs. During the Samanid era, a revival of the sources on Zoroastrianism was witnessed. Observing the social and religious symbols of ancient times in the Nishapur buff potteries provides a suitable ground for exploration in this field. It seems that Zoroastrianism had the most significant influence on the pottery motifs. This research has a qualitative and strategic system. Further, it is basic research based on the objective. Given the research method, the study is historical research conducted inductively. The current paper was analyzed using a descriptive-analytical method.