The Kharraqan Towers, a pair of mausoleum-structures dating to the early 11th century, are one of the most notable examples of “bare brick” style architecture from the Seljuk period in Iran. The two octagonal brick towers, with their rounded buttresses, double-dome structures, internal wall-paintings, and striking external calligraphic inscriptions, are most remarkable for the extensive use of elaborate geometric ornament in their external brickwork. Both towers were significantly damaged in an earthquake in 2002, but we are fortunate to have a variety of visual and photographic references recording the condition of the monuments before the earthquake and recent attempts at restoration. Working from these records, in each session we will explore one of the numerous patterns – placed within horizontal panels or framed vertically within arches – on these extraordinary monuments. Gradually moving from simplicity to complexity, we will study the underlying structures of geometric compositions constructed from whole and cut unglazed bricks, considering how the movement of the sun would create an interplay of light and shadow. These drop-in classes run throuout February, April & May, you can join as many sessions as you like, bookings and further info here.