The Oxford Guide to Heraldry

by John Martin Robinson (Author), Thomas Woodcock (Author)

• Used

  Paperback
  1990

  $3.24

  Heraldry is a colourful art with special rules and methods - a system of symbols denoting prominent families and institutions; a display of pageantry; and an invaluable aid to historians. Even a slight knowledge of heraldry can make all the difference in tracing family histories, and in looking at old houses, churches and monuments. This illustrated guide to the history and significance of heraldic symbols is written by Officers of Arms with full access to the records and manuscript collection of the College of Arms, the heraldic authority for the UK. It is both an introduction to the subject of heraldry, and an up-to-date record for experts. Subjects covered in this book include the origins of heraldry, the composition and appearance of arms, how and why they were, and still are, granted, their evolution as families grow and intermarry, and their use as decoration. While most attention is paid to Britain, there are also separate chapters on American and European heraldry, the latter covering France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, Russia, Austria, Belgium, Portugal and the Netherlands.

• Used

  Hardcover
  1988

  $9.47

  Dealing mainly with British heraldry and written by Officers of Arms with access to the records and manuscripts of the College of Arms, the heraldic authority of the UK, this is an introduction to heraldry which aims to help the reader enjoy old houses, churches and monuments as well as the subject for its own sake. It is written for people who know little about the subject, but it aims to be authoritative, avoiding romantic myths and bogus heraldic terms. Among the topics covered are the origins of heraldry; the composition of arms (shields, crests, supporters, etc) and their visual appearance; how arms were and are granted and to whom; the evolution of arms as families grow and intermarry; and the use of arms as decoration. There are chapters on American and European heraldry. The illustrations have been drawn where possible from the manuscripts in the College of Arms library.