The Complete Book of Heraldry

An International History of Heraldry and Its Contemporary Uses.

Examining the complete breadth of the history surrounding this fascinating subject, this book looks not only at the medieval world in which heraldry thrived, but at the language it used and the elaborate system of coded messages it conveyed, and its inextricable link with chivalry.

It also covers both the larger aspects of heraldry and everyday heraldic uses such as guilds and cities, hospitals and schools, and contains a comprehensive glossary.

The international uses of heraldry and the way in which different countries in different ages have interpreted it are also included. Most of Europe and The Americas are covered as well as looking at Scandinavia, Africa and Japan.

Novices and experts alike will benefit from the breadth of the content as well as enjoying the lavish illustrations much of which has never been published and the specially commissioned artwork from heraldic artists