The Oxford Guide to Heraldry

Rating:
Summary: Probably the best recent introduction
Review: An excellent introduction to the field by the Somerset Herald. Chapters cover the origins and evolution of the herald's art, the marshalling of arms, the technical aspects of blazoning, and even the proper decorative use of heraldry. The emphasis, naturally, is on Britain, but Europe and the United States are included as well. Very nicely illustrated, too, with a thick section of color plates. And a nice gift book, too.

Rating:
Summary: Authoritative, scholarly review of the history of heraldry.
Review: This is a well-researched, comprehensive analysis of the history of heraldry in both England and Europe. It features several full-color as well as grayscale plates illustrating ancient coats of arms and the evolution of this art to the modern day. A glossary with illustrations is included in the appendix, and it is well-indexed.

Rating:
Summary: Introduction to the joys of heraldry
Review: This is an outstanding and authoritative introduction to heraldry written by two English heraldists, one an officer of the College of Arms in London. The book is well researched and illustrated. Too often heraldic books are reprints or new editions of books from the first part of the 20th Century. This book has contemporary design and language and is well fitted to be the definitive guide at the turn of the 20th Century. It should be included in the library of every person with a serious interest in heraldry.

Rating:
Summary: Introduction to the joys of heraldry
Review: This is an outstanding and authoritative introduction to heraldry written by two English heraldists, one an officer of the College of Arms in London. The book is well researched and illustrated. Too often heraldic books are reprints or new editions of books from the first part of the 20th Century. This book has contemporary design and language and is well fitted to be the definitive guide at the turn of the 20th Century. It should be included in the library of every person with a serious interest in heraldry.