About
Written by 12th-century poet Attar of Neyshabour, The Canticle of the Birds has been illustrated throughout the centuries by miniaturists in different Persian manuscripts.
In this lecture, Farkhondeh Ahmadzadeh will take us through the poem and explore her understanding of the poetry and how it has inspired her contemporary paintings. We will explore the meanings and symbolism of the allegory through our journey with the birds in their quest to cross the Seven Valleys and find their sovereign, the magnificent mystical Simorgh.
Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions during the Q&A session at the end of the presentation.
Part of this year’s Miniature Atelier: Traditions & Techniques in Persian Miniature Painting.
Key information
Who is the lecture for?
All are welcome.
How do I attend?
This event will take place in person at The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts, 19-22 Charlotte Road, London EC2A 3SG.
What days/times do I attend?
Wednesday 15 June 2026, 18:30 – 20:00
FAQs
Do you offer concessions?
Yes, we offer concessions for Seniors/60+, full-time students and people who are unemployed/in receipt of benefits.
Concessions cannot be applied in retrospect. To receive a concession, please apply via our online form. We will then send you a discount code to use when booking your space.
Terms & Conditions
The School reserves the right to discontinue or suspend a Lecture up to fourteen (14) calendar days before the advertised start date. This lecture requires a minimum number of enrolments to run.
What if I need to cancel or change my booking?
No refunds or cancellations, unless cancelled by the School.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Lecturer Biography
Farkhondeh Ahmadzadeh
Farkhondeh Ahmadzadeh is an Iranian artist based in London. Her work explores the disciplines of Persian poetry manuscripts, sacred geometry and Persian miniatures. She has worked both as an academic and an artist in Iran, America and Europe. For the last 20 years, Farkhondeh has regularly spent time living and studying under calligraphy masters in Iran. She graduated with distinction from The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts’ MA programme in 2011 and was awarded the Jerwood prize for Islamic traditional art. She now works at the School as the MA Deputy Director of the Studies.
