An Introduction to Heraldry

by Stefan Oliver

This book surveys heraldry from its beginnings to the present day. In concise, entertaining text, it explains the meanings behind the symbols, the all-important differences between the rampant lion, the cowed lion, and the other 30-plus variations of lions. Includes many examples of other symbols and their placement in crests and coats-of-arms.

Genres: Nonfiction, Historical

112 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1987

Reviews

[Joshua Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first book on heraldry I’ve read, and it definitely furthered my interest in reading more on the subject. It’s not a comprehensive look at heraldry, as written in the title, but it does give many visual examples for the descriptions of the cost of arms, crests, shields, etc. For me, I wish there were pictures/examples of each term given to better understand the language used, and this language definitely started going over my head half way through the book. Still worth a read for anyone wanting to learn about heraldry, but probably as the first step of many in learning the subject.

[Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been looking for years for the book I checked out from the UofU library in 1990 that really set off my love for heraldry--I was interested before, but this book (at least I think this is the one) got me passionate about it. I hope to get it soon and read it again.