7 Iris is one of the largest asteroids of main belt asteroids. It is the fourth lustrous body after Ceres, Pallas and Vesta. It was discovered by well known English astronomer, John Russell Hind. It was Hind’s first and seventh asteroid to be discovered on August 13, 1847.

According to Greek mythology, it was named after “Iris” the rainbow goddess, sister of the Harpies.