Painting has played a central role in Iranian culture. Iran's indigenous pre-islamic past, together with Arab, Turkish, and Mongol influences, have combined to produce an art which continues to intrigue, dazzle and sometimes mystify its admirers. Published in honor of Basil W. Robinson, Keeper Ereitus at the Victoria and Albert Museum, and key contributor to the growing scholarly interest in Persian miniatures for over 60 years, this book brings together leading specialists on Persian painting.

Author Biography: Robert Hillenbrand is Professor of Fine Art at the University of Edinburgh, and Vice-President of the British Institute of Persian Studies.