Masterpieces of Islamic Art: The Decorated Page from the 8th to the 17th Century. In this volume, Greg Grabar, a world-renowned specialist on Islamic Art, introduces a wide range of illuminated manuscripts from the 8th to the 17th century, placing them in their temporal and spatial context as well as identifying the main centres of artistic creation. Illuminated manuscripts of the Koran, epic poetry, and scientific works are accompanied by a text explaining the subject, describing it particular visual features, and highlighting its artistic qualities. The working methods of the artists and calligraphers are reconstructed. The author also highlights the key moments in history, society, faith, devotion, and other aspects of the Islamic world which are represented in the images. With bibliography.