This informative book looks not only at the medieval world in which heraldry thrived, but also at its language, the elaborate system of coded messages it conveyed, and its inextricable link with chivalry.Featuring more than 700 illustrations, it also covers both the larger aspects of heraldry and everyday heraldic uses, and contains a comprehensive glossary.The book examines the history of heraldry from medieval tournaments to modern applications around the world - its origins and development, heralds and the Law of Arms, the coat of arms, messages and declarations, along with explanations of the applications of heraldry from royal heraldry and nobility, civic and state heraldry, and global heraldry, to the continuity of heraldry today - and includes a detailed and easily understood explanation of the language of heraldry.The international uses of heraldry and the way different countries have interpreted it are explored, covering most of Europe and the Americas as well as Scandinavia, Africa and Japan.An informed look at all aspects of heraldry, this book is lavishly illustrated throughout with fascinating archive material, and specially commissioned artworks.Novices and experts alike will benefit from the breadth of the content of this masterly history.