Ubiquitous in the fabric of our ancient churches, castles and houses, in documents, and on monuments and stained glass, heraldry represents a treasure-house of information for both the historian and genealogist, but one which often remains closed due to its apparent complexity and inaccessibility. Here Stephen Friar presents the subject in simple English, explaining its origins and significance in the lives of noble families, the interpretation of heraldic devices, and the symbols themselves. The text is complemented by over one hundred black and white photographs, eighty line drawings and sixteen pages of color illustrations, as well as an illustrated glossary, a list of further reading and useful addresses. - Jacket flap.