<DIV><i>The Arts of Islam</i> documents the Islamic art collection of Nasser D. Khalili in over five hundred stunning color photographs. Forty years in the making, this collection ranges the history of Islamic art from it beginnings in the 7th century up to the early 20th century while also representing the geographic and cultural diversity of the Muslim world.<br><BR> Covering both religious art and secular art, from architecture to decorative arts to rare manuscripts, art lovers will be thrilled by the diversity and depth exhibited within these pages.<br><br> The pieces photographed here have been shown in exhibitions around the world, and are finally pulled together into one grand catalog. This book illustrates not only the remarkable beauty of Islamic art itself but also the degree to which it, and the societies which produced it, have enriched the world as we know it. An appreciation for beauty connects all cultures and by making these rare pieces accessible to anyone seeking the beauty of Islam, <i>The Arts of Islam</i> hopes to contribute to a broadening of understanding between cultures and faiths.<BR><BR></DIV>