The focus of this study of the medieval English fur trade is the Skinners' Company of London, which governed the usage, manufacture and sale of furs and controlled the conditions of apprenticeship in the craft. Veale discusses theinternational nature of the trade in fur and the evolution of its usage following changes in mercantile activity and fashion. While fur trimmed the garments of those of exalted rank, the book stresses just how universal was its employment among all classes. A new preface surveys notable work in the area since the book's first publication (1966) and a glossary of fur terms and technical language is also included.