Glorious photographs and a relaxed, well-informed text shepherd the novice through the aptly-named ""splendors of Islam"" in rough chronological order. If Mr. Blunt is sometimes effusive, his general observations touch base--as when he comments on the absurdity of using the term ""minor arts"" for Persian pottery and book illustration. Carpet-fanciers, gallery-goers, and world travelers alike will find the book rewarding.