According to the Public Relations Office of Iran’s Organization of Student Affairs, the late Professor de Fouchécour left an irreplaceable legacy in promoting Iranian culture throughout the Francophone world. As a Professor Emeritus at the University of Paris III (Sorbonne Nouvelle) and the successor to the late Gilbert Lazard in the Chair and Directorship of the Institute of Iranian Studies, he dedicated over six decades of a prolific scientific life to the exploration and introduction of the treasures of Persian literature. He was also the founder of the prestigious international journal, Abstracta Iranica.
A Global Legacy of Enduring Works
De Fouchécour, possessing an unparalleled mastery of the nuances of Persian poetry and mysticism, earned international acclaim for his groundbreaking work: the first complete and detailed French translation of the Divan of Hafez. This monumental achievement garnered prestigious scientific honors, including the "Nelly Sachs Prize" for poetic translation and the "Delalande-Grineau Prize" from the Académie des Inscriptions et Belles-Lettres.
His other seminal works include the translation of the Maqalat of Shams Tabrizi, titled La Quête du Joyau (Éditions du Cerf, 2017), and his treatise Muralia, which analyzes the ethical concepts of classical Persian literature. Furthermore, from 1975 to 1979, he served as the Director of the French Institute for Research in Iran (IFRI) in Tehran.
An Unbreakable Bond with Iranian Culture
The late scholar's profound connection to the culture and civilization of Iran endured until his final days. In June 2019, the Academy of Persian Language and Literature (Farhangestan) conferred upon him honorary membership during a ceremony at UNESCO headquarters—a distinction achieved by very few European researchers. Additionally, in the spring of 2025, a major commemorative event was held at the Bureau des Langues et des Civilisations (BULAC) in Paris to celebrate his centennial; despite his advanced age, Professor de Fouchécour participated in the event via videoconference.
Condolences and Memorial Services
The Center for Research in the Iranian World (CeRMI) issued an official statement expressing deep condolences to the scientific community and the family of the deceased. According to the Center, Professor de Fouchécour's funeral will take place on Saturday, June 27th, at the Cimetière du Père-Lachaise (specifically the Béguinmont/Boulogne-la-Tour or similar designated site), and he will be laid to rest in the family vault at the Montparnasse Cemetery in Paris. The European Iranology community is also expected to hold a formal memorial service in September to honor his scientific contributions.
With the passing of Charles-Henri de Fouchécour, French Iranology loses one of its primary scientific pillars and a founding figure of its modern history. However, his research legacy will continue to serve as a guiding light for young Iranologists across the globe.