Symbols play an integral role in branding programs. This book explores the visual language of symbols according to their most basic element: form. Over 1,300 symbols from all over the world are here categorized by visual type, divested of all agendas, meanings, and messages that might be associated with them so that the effectiveness of their composition and impact can be assessed without distraction and so that the reader can enjoy them as a pictorial language in their own right.

Every symbol is captioned with information on who it was designed for, who designed it, when, and what the symbol stands for. These sections are interspersed with short but detailed case studies featuring classic examples of symbols still in use, and exceptional examples of recently designed symbols.

This comprehensive volume is an indispensable resource for designers working on identity systems, and an engaging showcase of this exciting field. Now in a compact format.

Angus Hyland is a graduate of the Royal College of Art and a partner at Pentagram Design London. In 2001 he was the co-curator with Roanne Bell of 'Picture This', a British Council exhibition featuring the work of London illustrators. His work for Laurence King includes (with Roanne Bell) Hand to Eye (2003), The Picture Book (2010) and, with Steven Bateman, Symbol (2011).

Steven Bateman is a freelance writer who has worked with some of the UK's leading design agencies. A regular contributor to Grafik magazine, he also writes for ISTD Condensed, Nico and Varoom.