Philosopher astronomer & mathematician Khayyam as a poet possesses a singular originality. His poetry is richly charged with evocative power & offers a view of life characteristic of his stormy times with striking relevance to the present day. This translation by Peter Avery & John Heath-Stubbs is beautifully & lavishly illustrated in colour with numerous examples of Persian miniature painting. It also contains a valuable introduction & several appendices including an essay on Persian painting.