Author: Jo Laver

Coat of Arms mottoes – some have mottoes and some don’t. They are an optional component of a Coat of Arms. In England, they are not alluded to or mentioned in a patent of arms. However, a herald will happily add it if so desired. There are two main schools of thought as to where…

There are only seven colours in heraldry – listed below together with the heraldic term and their meanings. Heraldic Colours Red (Gules) = Military fortitude and also magnanimity Blue (Azure) =Loyalty and in addition, truth Black (Sable) =Constancy, and sometimes grief Green (Vert) = Hope, joy and also loyalty in love Purple (Purpure) Royal majesty, sovereignty…

The Heraldic Artists even today, have a formidable challenge. Whilst he may enjoy considerable freedom, within certain limits, the objects in the coat of arms and crest, their colours, disposition and symmetry may not alter. Unfortunately, attempts by layman and even some commercial graphic artists often result in some classic mistakes or incongruities. A “lion…

Supporters in heraldry are figures usually stand on either side of the shield and depicted holding it up. These figures may be real or imaginary animals, human figures, and in rare cases plants or inanimate objects. Often these can have local significance. For instance, the fisherman and the tin miner granted to Cornwall County Council,…

Heraldry Through The Ages It is generally of the belief that in its beginning, heraldry originally had a strong military purpose. Men in armour were very difficult to recognise. For example, William the Conqueror had to remove his helmet in the midst of the battle of Hastings. He did this in order to prove himself…

Heraldry today The term heraldry today often necessitates many people to check their dictionary for the meaning, but evidence of heraldic art is everywhere today. If one takes a moment to reflect many of the coats of arms or heraldic shields seen in the normal course of a day, it becomes quite astounding. The obvious…