This volume of the Encyclopaedia Islarica is the 

third of a projected l6-volume set, largely consisting of an abridged and edited translation of the Persian Da irat al-Maarif i Buzurg-i lslāmi, one of the most comprehensive sources on Islam and the Muslim world, to which a number of original articles, written specifically for the English edition,have been added. One of the unique features of this work of reference lies in the attention it gives to Shi`i lslam and the rich and diverse heritage, which makes it complementary to other encyclopaedias.

In addition to providing entries on important themes, subjects and personages in Islam generally, it offers the Western reader an opportunity to appreciate the various dimensions of Shi i Islam, the Persian contributions to islamic civilisation, and the spiritual dimensions of the Islamic tradition.

Listed price is 1/2 of the price I find on line for similar volumes.

852 pages, plus an added section of illustrations. A handsome volume.