Description

Coats of arms were at first used only by kings and princes, then by their great nobles, but by the mid-13th century arms were being used extensively by the lesser nobility, knights and those who later came to be styled gentlemen. In some countries the use of arms spread even to merchants, townspeople and the peasantry. From the mundane to the fantastic, from simple geometric patterns to elaborate mythological beasts, this fascinating work by Terence Wise explores the origins and appearance of medieval heraldic devices in an engagingly readable style accompanied by numerous illustrations including eight full page colour plates by Richard Hook.

Table of Contents

Introduction · On Heraldry and Heralds · The Shield · Blazon · The Livery and Maintenance System · Crests · The Plates

Product details

Published Mar 26 1980
Format Paperback
Edition 1st
Extent 48
ISBN 9780850453485
Imprint Osprey Publishing
Illustrations 50 b/w; 8 col
Dimensions 10 x 7 inches
Series Men-at-Arms
Short code MAA 99
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Illustrator

Richard Hook

Richard Hook was born in 1938 and trained at Reiga…

Resources

Discover More

Visit our exclusive member's website to see artwork, maps, and more from this book.

Resources

Book Vote

Tell us what titles you would like to see published by Osprey, then vote for your favourites in our monthly book vote!

Related Titles

Sign up for Osprey membership for access to thousands of plane profiles, maps, battle scenes and more. Plus up to 30% off website purchases

Free US delivery on orders $35 or over