John Martin Robinson Livres

Developed originally for medieval battle flags, heraldic coats of arms quickly became emblems of noble families' origins and identities. This unique illustrated book explores the roots and uses of heraldry and its terminology and lore, and shows how it influenced the design and decor of 50 houses owned and preserved by Britain's National Trust.Drawing on their official access to the records of Britain's College of Arms, the authors illuminate the development of each house's heraldic symbols, which can indicate everything from marriages and honors to social status and even a sense of humor. The lush color photographs reveal the decorative uses of heraldry, as seen on paneling, carpets, stained glass, china, even door latches. Line drawings of each coat of arms and a gazetteer of what to look for in other National Trust properties provide readers with plenty more to investigate in historic houses throughout Great Britain.

Buckingham Palace Official Guide [Paperback] john-martin-robinson

Within the Castle complex there are many attractions, including the Drawings Gallery, Queen Mary's Dolls' House, and the fourteenth-century St. George's Chapel, the burial place often sovereigns and setting for many Royal weddings.

Windsor Castle—‘the most romantic castle that is in the world’, according to the 17th-century diarist Samuel Pepys—is the one of the oldest royal residences still in use. For over 900 years, from its memorable hill-top site above the Thames Valley, it has been a potent symbol of the monarchy. Built by William the Conqueror within what was a royal hunting forest (now Windsor Great Park) after the Norman Conquest of 1066, Windsor Castle has been successively enlarged, adapted and rebuilt by monarchs from Henry II to Queen Elizabeth II. Their legacy can be seen throughout the Castle, from the late medieval St George’s Chapel to the Tudor houses of the Lower Ward, from Charles II’s baroque remodelling of the state apartments to the exquisite Gothic interiors of the semi-state rooms, rebuilt for George IV. The fire of 1992 gave the Castle a new legacy, including the superb new interior to the historic St George’s Hall, most recently the Jubilee Garden has been added, to celebrate the Golden Jubilee of Her Majesty the Queen. The Queen and other members of the Royal Family continue to spend most of their private weekends at Windsor Castle, and it remains an important venue for ceremonial visits from heads of state of other countries. It is also home to some of the greatest paintings and works of art in the Royal Collection, which are displayed throughout the Castle’s splendid interiors.

This guide to Windsor Castle explains its rich history and its Royal use today, and guides the visitor round the parts open to the public - the Albert Memorial Chapel, Queen Mary's Dolls' House and St George's Chapel. It describes in detail the many treasures within.

The official illustrated history of Windsor castle illustrated in color.

Buckingham Palace is one of the official residences of Queen Elizabeth II, the Head of State of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth. While the Queen's direct powers are limited as a constitutional sovereign, she remains a vital symbol of national unity, with the Government, judges, and armed services acting in her name. The Queen is kept informed about national affairs and meets weekly with the Prime Minister. She retains certain prerogative powers, such as appointing the Prime Minister and dissolving Parliament. Many of her duties are ceremonial, reflecting the UK's rich history, including the State Opening of Parliament, the Queen's Birthday Parade, and Garter Day celebrations. The Palace also serves as her office, where she meets Heads of State, Ambassadors, and other leaders. Regular Investitures are held for presenting orders and medals, alongside receptions and dinners in the State Rooms. Each July, the Queen hosts three Garden Parties attended by over 27,000 guests. The Palace showcases invaluable works of art from the Royal Collection, displayed in settings commissioned by past monarchs. Due to its status as a working royal palace, art may be relocated or lent for exhibitions worldwide, leading to varying arrangements.

hardcover with dust jacket