Layla Visiting Majnun in the Desert, page from a copy of the Khamsa of Nizami Safavid dynasty (1501–1722), 16th century

This 16th century miniature painting, "Layla Visiting Majnun in the Desert," depicts a scene from the epic poem *Khamsa* by the Persian poet Nizami. The painting is one of many pages from a copy of the book, and shows Layla arriving to visit the love-struck Majnun, who sits surrounded by wild animals in the desert. The scene is framed by a decorative border, and the use of vibrant colors and fine detail is characteristic of Safavid miniature painting, which was popular in Iran during this period. The painting is currently housed at the Art Institute of Chicago.