To the uninitiated, heraldry can be an intimidating subject. Its vast literature, and unfamiliar lexicon, can appear to be insurmountable obstacles to the novice. This brief introduction to heraldry is intended for those with little or no knowledge of the subject, who, it is assumed, will form the majority of users of the armorial database. The language of heraldic description, known as blazon, has been simplified as much as possible, and some of the arcane names for heraldic devices have been replaced by more familiar equivalents.
The origins of heraldry lie in the need to distinguish participants in combat when their faces were hidden by iron and steel helmets. Though the practice of heraldry is nearly 900 years old, it is still very much in use. Many cities and towns in Europe and around the world still make use of arms. Personal heraldry, both legally protected and lawfully assumed, has continued to be used around the world.
