The Illustrated Book of Heraldry: An International History Of Heraldry And Its Contemporary Uses

by Stephen Slater

This informative book looks not only at the medieval world in which heraldry thrived, but also at its language, the elaborate system of coded messages it conveyed, and its inextricable link with chivalry. Featuring more than 700 illustrations, it also covers both the larger aspects of heraldry and everyday heraldic uses, and contains a comprehensive glossary. The book examines the history of heraldry from medieval tournaments to modern applications around the world – its origins and development, heralds and the Law of Arms, the coat of arms, messages and declarations, along with explanations of the applications of heraldry from royal heraldry and nobility, civic and state heraldry, and global heraldry, to the continuity of heraldry today – and includes a detailed and easily understood explanation of the language of heraldry. The international uses of heraldry and the way different countries have interpreted it are explored, covering most of Europe and the Americas as well as Scandinavia, Africa and Japan. An informed look at all aspects of heraldry, this book is lavishly illustrated throughout with fascinating archive material, and specially commissioned artworks. Novices and experts alike will benefit from the breadth of the content of this masterly history.

“This volume is the most international study of heraldry for a generation. Well known for his irreverent lectures, which bring obscure historical subjects to vibrant life, Stephen Slater’s book is sure to appeal as much to the general reader as the enthusiast.” Baz Manning, Society of Heraldic Artists.

256 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Cyndie Courtney · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to design a coat of arms for my family, asked for, and got this book for Christmas. It was extremely informative though not precisely what I had expected. I'd hoped for a book of symbols, colors in heraldry and what they represented. There was some of that, but more was a history of heraldry and using symbols in battle and personal identification.

Some of it was kind of boring, but also I found neat facts where I didn't expect them - like how the Japanese used a different set of symbols in different ways for personal and battlefield identification. They covered different trends in heraldry over time and in different countries. They also provide advice on how not to get swindled by people trying to sell you a coat of arms that isn't legitimate.

The major thing I would improve is the use of even more illustrations, some things were referred to in the text that I kept thinking "yeah, but can you show me a picture of that?" While they touch on the heraldry terminology, there wasn't a strong enough review of it to support the extensive use of specific terms later on in the text.

I learned a lot and now have a much better idea of what kind of symbols I want to use to help represent my family.

[Linkpead · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great visual resource for understanding heraldry.

[Brian Martin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great information

[Christopher · Rating 4 out of 5]

A slow read but not a bad one. The print in this book was small, and it contained a lot of information. An up to date introduction to the subject of heraldry.

[Guy Sandison · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first half gives a clear description of the form and history of heraldry. The second half starts to tail off and become repetitive.

[Felipe Cañas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful trip through the heraldic custom, starting from early middle ages up to present day. The book is quite thorough, covering its origins, its language and its evolution.