In Iran, artists are mastering the techniques of Chinese miniature painting. An artist from the city of Zanjan, 300 kilometers west of Tehran, has created a miniature masterpiece considered the largest in the Islamic world.

Reza had a dream -- to study miniature painting as practiced by the renowned Persian master Mahmoud Farshchiyan. His goal was to create a dazzling work based on his techniques.

Today, his dream has come true.

Working steadily for over two years in his cramped apartment, he recently accomplished the achievement of a lifetime.

Reza has now unveiled what is reportedly the world's largest miniature masterpiece.

He has named his work the "Ascension of the Prophet." It is a piece unique both in terms of its size and its combination of colors.

Reza said, "When I was a teenager, I became passionately interested in painting, especially Persian painting, and particularly the school of master Farshchiyan. I tried to focus all of my energy on learning the style of master Farshchiyan through exercises and by copying his works, so that in the future I could reach the desired level of mastery to create works within the framework of this school."

Miniature painting came to Iran from China. Although not an original Persian art, local artists like Reza have developed it into one of the most interesting art forms in the world through their innovations and skill.