The history of Islam stretches from the seventh century to the present & encompasses an area from Spain to Indonesia, North Africa to the Steppes. The material culture of the Muslim peoples is accordingly richly varied, taking in architectural projects on a vast scale & minutely detailed miniature paintings, exquisitely patterned silk textiles & bold calligraphy. The spectacular format of the ” Timeline” allows the reader to view the magnificent sweep of the art of Islam in a unique way. You can see at a glance exactly what was happening in the different arts & countries of Islam within the same period. ” The Timeline” is lavishly illustrated throughout with colour photographs, many of which are taken from the world renowned Khalili Collection. In addition to the Timeline there is a section devoted to the historical dynasties of the Islamic world & a list of Islamic Rulers along with a four-page gatefold map which encapsulates the global aspects of Islamic history & culture. There then follows an essay on the history of Islamic art & architecture, including biographies of leading Muslim craftsmen, painters & architects & specific chapters devoted to individual arts including: architecture, calligraphy, Qur`ans, pottery, glass, jewellery, arms & armour, carpets & textiles, carvings & seals & coins.