An Heraldic Alphabet

Book excerpt: In this invaluable reference book John Brooke-Little, who as Clarenceux King of Arms is one of the three chief heralds of England & Wales, presents a fascinating and illuminating guide to the subject of heraldry. Illustrated with over 300 line drawings, the book includes general chapters on such topics as the birth of Heraldry, the development of arms, the grammar of heraldry and the laws that govern the way in which arms are inherited and in which they may be used, along with a fully comprehensive guide to the terminology and devices that make heraldry such an interesting study. Clear, definitive, and precise, this is the essential glossary for all students of heraldry and for anyone who is intrigued by this engrossing subject.