Heraldry Custom, Rules and Styles

13C: Blandford Press. Fine in Fine dust jacket. 1983. Hardcover. 0713709405 . This specific book is in fine condition. It is a hardback book with edges and corners free from significant bumps or scuffing. The pages are clean, crisp, unmarked and uncreased with no highlighting, notes or underlining but the previous owner's name is written inside the front cover. The dust jacket is in fine condition with only the slightest bit of cover or edge wear if any. This is a remarkable book and is in fine condition.; This book is a lavishly illustrated and extensively researched study of the complex rules and customs governing the international subject of heraldry. Scholarly in depth, yet wide and readable in its approach, this book shows why the popularity of family heraldry is increasing and why the subject continues to arouse such interest. In an informative text, and in the detailed and cross-referenced captions to 1,250 illustrations, over 150 in colour, Carl-Alexander von Volborth brings his knowledge to bear on every aspect of heraldry. Using his own illustrations, he discusses the differences in heraldic style between the countries in Europe, and also shows how these differences affect those countries where heraldry has been introduced by migrating or colonizing Europeans. Beginning his study with a concise historical analysis of the reasons for heraldry, the author then gives a clear explanation of the general rules - outlining the historical development and present importance of such matters- as the type and position of helm, the use of supporters and the shape and colours of the shield. After chapters on Differencing and Cadency and Marshalling of Arms, von Volborth moves to one of the most important sections of his book; a detailed country-by-country guide to those customs, rules and styles which govern the heraldry of individual groups from artisans to kings. Starting with the arms of artisans and burghers, he gives illustrative examples that show the wide differences caused by the customs governing each country, and the similarities caused by emigration and trade. Then, with the aid of further illustrations, he describes the historical and the present armorial style for varying grades of the noblesse, from stark simplicity to many-quartered splendour. He closes the section with a study of, the arms of princes and ruling families. After a chapter on Corporate Arms, which includes the arms of guilds, the author concludes his book with three chapters devoted to Ecclesiastical Heraldry and Religious Orders of Chivalry. A detailed list of contents, and an extensive index of the arms and devices mentioned, ensure that readers can find their way around the subject.; 1.11 x 9.13 x 6.57 Inches; 230 pages .