IT is uncertain when heraldry was born but in England it is associated with the reign of Henry I (1068-1135) when an illustration in a manuscript of that time shows shields with geometric patterns on them.

By the second half of the century, the symbols used upon family seals were being introduced onto shields, passed down to become hereditary and can still be seen today in coats of arms.

Heraldry became a regular feature in the life of the medieval knight and the tournament did much to promote the heraldic devices. It was very costly to clothe horses for jousting, nevertheless these can be seen in the illustrations of the time.

As the clothes of the knight changed these devices became an integral part of the armour and were used as a means of identification on the battlefield until the 16th century.

This excellent book tells us of the story of heraldry and its language, of coats of arms and heralds all in an interesting manner that makes the subject come to life.

It shows us how heraldry is used today and how we meet it regularly as in schools, hospitals, guilds and cities.

More than 500 illustrations make this a beautiful book to look at and its accessible text makes it an excellent buy at a bargain price