“Lived experience” in the management of archaeology in Iran with a phenomenological perspective on the “administrative documents” of the Cultural Heritage Institution Case study: Seyyed Mohammad Taghi Mostafavi (1905-1981)

Examining administrative writings through a phenomenological lens, considering the thematic framework, authorial stance, and intended audience, provides a primary or supplementary resource for comprehending historical periods, key figures, significant events, and the evolutionary trajectory of academic and research institutions. Over time, as these documents become historical artifacts, they offer invaluable insights for case studies, analysis, and assessments, enriching our understanding of various themes and subjects and broadening the scope of outcomes. Additionally, analyzing administrative correspondences reveals a diversity of writing styles, genres, and themes, discernible through the frequency of names, variation in content, complexity of relationships, and identification of intertextual connections. Consequently, this approach yields novel findings and examples not previously documented. Furthermore, the inclusion of visual documents alongside textual records enhances the depth and complexity of contemporary discourse, facilitating nuanced discussions and refined interpretations. This study employs a phenomenological approach to explore the professional journey of Seyed Mohammad Taghi Mostafavi (1906-1980), a pioneering figure in Iranian archaeology and its management. By interpreting administrative documents and existing written sources, it adopts a "lived experience" perspective, offering insights distinct from previous narratives and laying the groundwork for future research endeavors.