<p><em>The Perfumed Garden - for the Repose of the Mind</em> is a classic work of Arab erotica offering a uniquely entertaining collection of tales, frank and sound advice on sexual relations, and a poetic style of great literary merit. This is a book which delights in the humorous possibilities of sexual expression, and treats these in an urbane style reminiscent of Chaucer and Boccaccio. Also included in the first illustrated edition is a remarkable collection--previously unpublished--of early Mughal and other rare erotic paintings. Reproductions of exquisite tilework and friezes offer a rare glimpse of the Arabian palaces and harems that provide much of the inspiration for the original text. Over 50 full-color illustrations.<br /></p>