André Godard was one of the pioneering architects in Iran during the early decades of the fourteenth century SH. His presence in Iran was not unrelated to Reza Shah’s incidental visit to Susa and his encounter with the French archaeological fortress there. The revocation of the excavation concession and the subsequent appointment of a Frenchman—André Godard—as Director of the Department of Antiquities in Iran were influenced by this event.
Godard came to Iran for four consecutive five-year terms and began his work as an archaeologist in 1928. However, his period of activity extended for more than three decades. During this time, in addition to archaeology, he was involved in architecture and the design of newly established public buildings. He designed a number of important projects, including schools, universities, museums, libraries, and mausoleums.
Godard continued his activities in Iran until 1960, after which he returned to Paris. His book The Art of Iran was published a few years before his death and remains his final major work.