The Story of World Religions provides concise and reliable information on hinduism, buddhism, religions of China and Japan, Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The Story of World Religions provides concise and reliable information on key cultural and historical topics. Highlights: — Chronological presentation of the most important themes; — More than 150 illustrations with detailed explanations; — Supplementary cards on special related themes and the history of the events; — Time lines, illustrations, and maps; — Index of subjects and names.

Islam, the second largest and the youngest of the major world religions, has changed the world and left its mark on human history since the appearance of the prophet Mohammed in the seventh century. This book follows the historical development of the Islamic dynasties and regions, showing the variety of their forms of artistic expression from the beginning until today. From decorative elements of buildings to calligraphy and the embellishment of everyday objects, ornamentation, that most characteristic Islamic art form, is displayed in an extraordinary rich range of ways. The contributions of important scholars bring to life before our very eyes this culture, which belongs next to Greek and Roman antiquity as one of the pillars of our modern society.

The new series in a square format sends the reader on a journey across European metropolises. Thereby, the attention is focused not on prominent buildings at large but on ingenious and extraordinary details. Each title focuses on a different constructional element the first three volumes present doors, windows and facades from all architectural epochs and styles. Every one includes about 700 photographs that illustrate the diversity of European art of building. Whether new or old, nice or bizarre here the reader will find an architectural kaleidoscope of a special kind.

This new series in a square format sends the reader on a journey across European metropolises. Thereby, the attention is focused not on prominent buildings at large but on ingenious and extraordinary details. Each title focuses on a different constructional element. The first three volumes present doors, windows and facades from all architectural epochs and styles. Every one includes about 700 photographs that illustrate the diversity of European art of building. Whether new or old, nice or bizarre here the reader will find an architectural kaleidoscope of a special kind.