The art and architecture that came from the fusion of Persian culture with Muslim faith is the subject of this new book by Henri Stierlin. In practice, the book focuses mostly on architectural decoration, particularly the colored mosaic tile interiors and exteriors of mosques, palaces, civic buildings, and minarets, with a secondary focus on architecture (with related material) and miniature painting. It is lavishly illustrated with excellent photographs by the author, Anne Stierlin, and Adrien Buchet, and lovely as a coffee-table book. For readers not familiar with Persian/Iranian work, these photos are a jaw-dropping introduction to the sophisticated beauty and virtuosity of Persian buildings, and the pointlessness of dividing "craft" and "ornament" from fine art or architecture. For readers in Persian architecture and arts, the photos show many buildings and their visual effects in detail from a variety of distances. There are also some photographs of miniature painting and other arts. The text is respectful and informed on a range of topics in art, architecture, history, and traditions in faith, science, and society across the Persian cultural sphere from the Near East to Central Asia. The book surveys Persian work from the rise of Islam through the 19th century. Its focus on a few arts allows the author to do this job in depth. The author is an architectural historian with many previous books. There is an excellent rear index of architectural plans as well as a glossary, index, and general bibliography. Of interest to readers looking for a beautiful art book, and technical readers in architecture, art history, or Persian and Islamic cultures. Oversize: 11x13". Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)