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About The Book: It is a collection of Oriental manuscripts presented to the Metropolitan Museum New York in 1913. These manuscripts, some unique, are beautifully illuminated with intricate miniatures. The Catalogue meticulously documents technical details, literary and historical significance, and even personal insights from the manuscripts' past owners. The Catalogue took two years to prepare, delayed by university commitments. It employs a descriptive approach that balances technical information for specialists with an appreciation of the art, including illuminations, bindings, and more. The generous donor made these manuscripts accessible to the public, and the Catalogue expresses gratitude for their support and involvement. Many individuals, including library staff, university personnel, and museum staff, are acknowledged for their assistance in handling the manuscripts and preparing the catalog. Special thanks are extended to Dr. George C. O. Haas for his significant contributions. About The Author: Alexander Smith Cochran (1874-1929) was a wealthy New York industrialist and philanthropist. He owned a major carpet manufacturing company, supported Yale University, donated illuminated manuscripts to the Met, and ventured into yachting. His marriage to actress Ganna Walska ended in a high-profile divorce. Cochran passed away in 1929. Abraham Valentine Williams Jackson (1862-1937) was a noted American scholar of Indo-European languages. He taught at Columbia University, specializing in English literature and Indo-Iranian languages. Jackson authored important works on Avestan, the language of Zoroastrian scriptures. He received recognition from the Parsees in India and Ceylon for his contributions. Abraham Yohannan (1853-1925) was a pioneering Assyrian scholar, philologist, historian, and humanitarian advocate. He achieved the distinction of being the first individual of Oriental descent to teach Oriental languages at Columbia University. The Title 'A Catalogue of t