THE MANY FACES OF HAFIZ - Prof. Priscilla Soucek
Lecture/Reception

Venue:
BP Lecture Theatre, British Museum, Great Russell Street, London WC1B 3DG.

Date and time:
20 May 2004, 6.30 PM.

Programme schedule:
Lecture 6.30-7.30 PM
Reception 7.30-9.00 PM.

Organised by:
The British Museum and the Iran Heritage Foundation.

Supported by:
Credit Suisse.

Introduction:
The poetry of Shams al-din Muhammad Shirazi, known as Hafiz, has been at the center of Persian literary culture since its composition in the fourteenth century. The popularity of his verses led to their rapid diffusion not only throughout Iran but also to India and Central Asia. His work was especially appreciated among Sufis and the belief that his poetry could be used for auguries about the future gave his verses particular weight. For painters, however, the subtle and complex meanings in his poetry posed a challenge. Should they take their inspiration from a literal reading of his text or should they strive to reflect its more indirect messages? This lecture will explore the different ways in which the poetry of Hafiz has been used in the visual arts. Some painters chose to present visual “translations” of his verses but others attempted to reflect their more subtle implications. Some of the most important Hafiz manuscripts were made for members of the Safavid and Mughal dynasties. Jahangir is said to have relied on Hafiz for advice at critical moments in his life so copies that belonged to him are particularly revealing and will provide a major focus for this lecture.

Priscilla P. Soucek is a Professor at the Institute of Fine Arts, New York University where she also serves as Deputy Director. She has made the artistic and literary culture of Iran the focus of her research and writing. Her publications deal with a range of topics and periods from early Islamic seals to Qajar coins, but many focus on the arts of the book. She is writing a monograph on regionalism in Iranian art.

The lecture will be followed by a reception in honour of Prof. Soucek.

Admission:
Tickets: 22.00 Pounds.

Enquiries and box office:
020 7493 4766 or info@iranheritage.org.
AMEX, Visa, Mastercard and cheques accepted. Make cheques payable to Iran Heritage Foundation and mail to 5 Stanhope Gate London W1K 1AH.