Decoding the Symbolism of Animal Charges in Coat of Arms

Coats of arms have been used throughout history to represent families, organizations, and even countries. These symbol-rich designs serve as a form of identification or proclamation of status. One of the most prominent elements in a coat of arms is the animal charge. Animal charges can range from lions and eagles to dragons and unicorns, each with a highly symbolic meaning. The history and evolution of animal charges in heraldry are fascinating, and understanding the symbolism behind them can reveal a great deal about the values and attributes that were important to the people who created them. Join us on a journey through time to unravel the mysteries of animal symbolism in coat of arms.

What are Coat of Arms?

Coat of Arms refer to a design that represents a family or an individual. Typically, it comprises a shield that contains charges such as animals, symbols, and colors. The charges on the coat of arms commonly represent the qualities, achievements, or aspirations of the individual or family, conveying a message of identity, power, and prestige. A coat of arms is unique to the individual, reflecting their family or personal history, cultural background, and values. In addition to the charges, a coat of arms can also have supporters, banners, crest, mantling, and other accessories that decorate it. The use of coat of arms dates back to ancient times and still plays a significant role in modern heraldry.

Why Animal Charges are Important?

Animal charges are significant in the realm of heraldry, as they are the primary figures used to personalize and distinguish a coat of arms. These animal figures have been a part of Coat of Arms for thousands of years, and their importance and relevance have not diminished in modern times. Animals used as charges can represent various meanings and evoke certain emotions, which makes them essential in the creation of a coat of arms for individuals, families, or organizations.

One reason why animal charges are important is that they give a coat of arms its distinctive character. Animals have unique attributes and symbolism that helps to represent the individual or group that the coat of arms represents. Animal charges can evoke different emotions depending on the qualities and symbolism associated with the animal. For example, a lion is a symbol of courage, power, and strength. A coat of arms featuring a lion charge would represent a family or group with these attributes.

Another reason for the importance of animal charges is that they represent a family’s heritage or historical significance. A coat of arms with a lion charge could signify that the family had a noble or monarchial background. Similarly, a wolf charge could indicate that the family had historical ties to hunting or a warrior society. Animal charges on a coat of arms can provide insight into the family’s history and what values or attributes they hold dear.

Animal charges have significant importance in the world of heraldry. They have been used for centuries, and they still hold relevance in modern times. The figure of an animal charge is essential in creating a recognizable and distinguished coat of arms as they have unique symbolism and evoke emotions associated with the animal they represent. The significance of animal charges on a coat of arms cannot be overstated, and their use is crucial in personalizing a family or group’s coat of arms.

History of Animal Charges in Coat of Arms

The use of symbols or signs to identify individuals, families, or groups dates back to ancient times. However, the concept of a “coat of arms” as we know it today originated in medieval Europe. The first coats of arms appeared in the 12th century, and by the 13th century, they were widely used throughout Europe.

The use of animals as symbols in heraldry has its roots in ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome. For example, the Egyptians used the image of a lion to symbolize strength and courage. The Greeks saw the owl as a symbol of wisdom, while the Romans used the eagle as a symbol of power and freedom.

During the Middle Ages, coats of arms became more elaborate and began to feature animals as central figures. These animal charges were chosen for their symbolic meaning and were often associated with the qualities that the bearer of the arms wished to emulate.

One of the most popular animals in heraldry is the lion, which has been used as a symbol of courage and strength since ancient times. The eagle, symbolizing power and freedom, is also a popular animal charge. Other animals commonly used as charges include bears, wolves, and dragons.

The use of animal charges continued throughout the Renaissance and into the modern era, with new animals being added to the heraldic repertoire. For example, the unicorn, which had previously been associated with Christianity, became a popular symbol of purity and chastity in the 16th century.

Animal charges have played a significant role in the evolution of coats of arms, serving as powerful symbols that communicate the values and ideals of the individuals and families they represent.

Origins of Coat of Arms

The history of coat of arms dates back to the early Middle Ages, and was initially created as a way to identify warriors on the battlefield. The word “coat of arms” comes from the cloth tunic worn over armor, which displayed the design. These designs became hereditary over time and began to represent noble families and their attributes. The exact origin of the use of coats of arms is still a topic of debate, but some historians believe they were first used by the Normans in the 11th century.

During the Crusades, knights would cover their shields in a distinctive emblem to make it easier to recognize each other on the battlefield. From the 12th century, these emblems began appearing on seals and in manuscripts. By the 13th century, heraldry had become a respected scientific discipline and a symbol of wealth and power.

The specific design components of coats of arms including the use of animals, colors, motifs, and symbols, evolved over time. Originally the design was simple and did not include much color, but over time the complexity and the layering of elements grew. Use of various birds, animals and mythological creatures in the coats of arms became a popular way to represent family history and to create a fearsome or noble image.

During the medieval period, heraldry was used not only on the battlefield, but also on standards and banners to represent cities and kingdoms. These were adorned with the coat of arms of the noble who was in charge of the city or kingdom. Over time, the use of coat of arms became widespread, and many nations and wealthy families began adopting their own unique designs.

The design of the coat of arms was traditionally passed down from father to son, and this is why many of the world’s most prestigious noble families still have their own distinctive coat of arms today.

Today, coats of arms are used for a variety of purposes, including by corporations, universities, and governments. They can represent the history and values of a particular organization or family, and can be a valuable tool in creating a distinct visual identity.

Next let’s explore the use of animals in coat of arms design and the symbolism they represent.

Symbols in Coat of Arms Design

Animal Symbolism in Ancient Civilizations

Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, used animal symbolism in various aspects of their society, including art, mythology, and religion. These societies believed that animals possess unique traits, and these traits can be embodied in humans. As a result, they placed great importance on animals that represented power, courage, strength, and wisdom.

The Egyptians placed a significant focus on animal symbolism in their culture, with gods and goddesses taking the form of animals. The feline goddess Bastet was associated with protection, fertility, and motherhood, while the jackal-headed god Anubis represented mummification and the afterlife.

In Greek mythology, prominent symbols included the eagle, which was associated with Zeus, the king of the gods, and Athena, the goddess of wisdom. The serpent, in both positive and negative contexts, represented medicine, healing, and rebirth. Owls, which were associated with Athena, represented wisdom and vigilance.

The Romans also used animals as symbols, with eagles representing power and victory in battle, and the wolf symbolizing protection, strength, and bravery. Additionally, they used animals like the bull, horse, and boar as symbols of strength and power.

Ancient civilizations believed that animals had unique qualities that could be of use in various aspects of society, from religion to politics. These beliefs were carried over to the use of animal symbolism in coat of arms. Each animal represented a specific trait that the bearer of the coat of arms may possess or aspire to.

Evolution of Animal Charges in European Heraldry

During the medieval period, the use of Coat of Arms was becoming a symbol of pride and honor for the noble families in Europe. Continual changes and interventions of events helped to shape and develop the most common animal charges used in European Heraldry.

Rampant Lions

Perhaps the most recognizable symbol of nobility is the rampant lion. Its origins can be traced back to medieval times, when lions were associated with bravery, courage, and royalty. During the Middle Ages, lions were often depicted holding crowns or swords in their paws. The lion remained a popular emblem throughout the Renaissance and into the modern era. In fact, it has been said that a coat of arms without a lion would be like Shakespeare without the soliloquy.

Eagles and Bears

In addition to lions, eagles and bears also gained popularity as prominent figures in Coat of Arms designs. Eagles, known for their strength and courage, were often featured in the crests of German, Austrian, and Russian families, while bears represented strength and resilience and were typically found in Scandinavian and Russian Coat of Arms.

Wolves and Dragons

Wolves and dragons also make appearances in medieval and Renaissance Coat of Arms design. The wolf was initially associated with hunting and the pursuit of prey, but later became emblematic of bravery and loyalty, especially for Scottish families. Dragons, on the other hand, were often depicted in the crests of Welsh, Scottish, and English families. Dragons were thought to symbolize power, wisdom, and mystery.

Unicorns

Another mythical creature that became prominent in the European Heraldry is the unicorn. It was often depicted in a shield along with other animals, representing purity, chastity, and grace. Unicorns were said to be untameable and therefore considered a symbol of strength and power.

Over time, the use of animal charges in Coat of Arms designs evolved, becoming more intricate and complex. By the 18th century, designs came to include both real-life animals as well as mythical creatures. The use of animals in Coat of Arms designs has had a long-lasting impact on heraldry and continues to inspire designers today.

If you want to learn more about the symbolism behind Coat of Arms design, read our articles on colors in Coat of Arms design and symbolism of shield shapes.

Meaning of Animal Charges in Coat of Arms

Coats of arms are a unique form of art that depict various symbols, including animal charges. Every animal carries a different attribute, which speaks about the values and traits of the family or organization it represents. Let’s dive deeper into the meaning of some of the most popular animal charges in coat of arms.

Lions

Lions are the most common animal charges in heraldry, and they represent courage, strength, and royalty. The lion is known as the king of the jungle, and the same can be said for heraldry. It is often depicted in a rampant position, which means it is standing up with its front paws raised and jaws open.

Eagles

Eagles are another popular animal charge used in coat of arms. They represent power, courage, and farsightedness. Eagles are often depicted with their wings spread, head turned to the side and its talons extended. They can be found in crests of many countries, including the United States, and Russia.

Bears

Bears are typically depicted as vicious and aggressive creatures in the wild, however, in heraldry, they represent strength and protection. The bear has been used in coat of arms for centuries and was often seen as the symbol of noble families in Europe. It is usually depicted in a rampant position with it’s mouth open, and claws extended.

Wolves

Wolves have different meanings depending on their position in the coat of arms. If the wolf is chasing its prey, it signifies hunger, while if the wolf is sitting, it denotes loyalty and leadership. Wolves are associated with strength, cunning, and loyalty, and they were also used in designs of many socialist countries.

Dragons

Dragons have been a popular symbol in many cultures for thousands of years. In heraldry, dragons represent wisdom, heroism, and fierceness. They are often depicted with wings and fire coming out of their mouth. In Chinese culture, dragons represent good luck, while in European culture, they can be associated with treacherous events.

Unicorns

Unicorns are mythical creatures that represent purity, strength, and grace. They are often depicted with a single twisted horn on their forehead and a mane of hair. Unicorns were first used in heraldry in Scotland to represent innocence and purity.

Coats of arms are a great way to tell a story with symbols and colors. Understanding the meaning of animal charges in coat of arms can help you decode the message behind a family’s crest. Combining these animals with other charges, such as typography and banners can create a unique and personalized design that tells a family’s story.

Lions

Lions are one of the most popular and widely used animals in coat of arms design. They are most often depicted in a rampant position, which means standing on their hind legs with their front paws raised and ready to strike. This posture symbolizes strength and courage, making it a perfect choice for a coat of arms.

In heraldry, lions are associated with royalty, nobility, and strength. They are often used to represent the virtues of bravery, courage, and valor. Lions are also closely associated with the sun, and they represent power and energy.

There are many variations of lion symbols in coat of arms design, including different colors and poses. A lion passant, or walking, symbolizes peace and harmony. A lion dormant, or sleeping, symbolizes power at rest. A lion statant, or standing, symbolizes watchfulness and alertness. A lion sejant, or sitting, symbolizes a calm and composed strength.

Lions are often depicted in pairs, facing each other, and are known as “supporters” in heraldry. When used in this way, they symbolize the duality of nature and the need for balance and harmony. The double-tailed lion is a symbol of strength and power, and it is often used to represent royalty.

In terms of color, a golden lion on a red or blue background is a very common design. The gold symbolizes faith, justice, and wisdom, while the red represents valor and bravery. Alternatively, a white lion on a black background is another popular design, representing purity, strength, and royalty.

Lions are powerful symbols in heraldry, representing strength, courage, and nobility. They can be used in many different variations and designs, making them a versatile choice for a coat of arms. If you want to learn more about other important elements in coat of arms design, take a look at our article on the importance of heraldic crowns in coat of arms.

Eagles

Eagles, with their ability to soar at great heights, are one of the most popular animal charges in coat of arms. They have been used in various cultures, including ancient Rome, where they were revered for their association with Jupiter, the king of gods. In heraldry, eagles are usually depicted with their wings spread, ready to take off into the skies.

The Different Meanings of Eagles in Coat of Arms:

Type of Eagle	Meaning
Bald Eagle	Associated with bravery, courage, and strength
Double-Headed Eagle	Indicates leadership, empire, and dominance
Black Eagle	Symbolizes wisdom, power, and protection

In American heraldry, the bald eagle is the most common type of eagle charge, often seen in military and government crests. For example, the Great Seal of the United States, which appears on the one-dollar bill, contains a bald eagle with its wings outspread.

Eagle Colors:

Eagles in coat of arms are typically seen in various colors, such as gold, silver, or black. The color of the eagle symbolizes different meanings, such as:

• Gold: represents generosity, loyalty, and high-mindedness.
• Silver: represents peace and sincerity.
• Black: represents grief and constancy.

Eagles are a powerful symbol of strength, leadership, and protection, making them a popular choice for coat of arms designs. If you’re interested in creating a personalized coat of arms with an eagle charge, check out personalization options to make your crest unique and meaningful.

Bears

Bears have been an important symbol in a variety of cultures around the world. In coat of arms design, bears are often used to represent strength, bravery, and leadership. Some famous examples of bear charges in coat of arms include the Russian coat of arms and the flag of California.

In European heraldry, the bear was often depicted in a standing position, with its forepaws raised and its mouth open. This posture was intended to convey a sense of strength and aggression. The color of the bear charge could also have symbolic significance. Brown bears were often used to represent strength and courage, while white bears (polar bears) were associated with the north and the cold.

In Native American cultures, the bear was often seen as a powerful spirit animal. Bears were believed to have healing powers, and their fur was sometimes used in ritual ceremonies. The bear was also associated with leadership and authority in some tribes.

In some coat of arms, bears may be depicted holding or standing atop a tree. This may be meant to symbolize the protection of the forest and its resources. In other cases, the bear may be shown with a weapon, such as an axe or a spear. This could represent the bear’s role as a hunter or protector.

Bears have a long and rich history as symbols in various cultures. In the context of coat of arms design, bears are often used to represent strength, bravery, and leadership. They may also be associated with the protection of natural resources or the spirit of the forest.

Internal link: To learn more about typography in coat of arms design, check out our article on Typography in Coat of Arms Design.

Wolves

were a common animal charge in European heraldry, symbolizing power, bravery, and loyalty. In heraldry, wolves are usually depicted as rampant or passant, in a fierce and aggressive pose. Like other animal symbols, wolves have been imbued with different meanings depending on the context of their use.

In German heraldry, for example, the wolf was sometimes used to represent the traits of cunning and resourcefulness, while in other cultures it was associated with fertility and protection.

One of the most well-known uses of the wolf in heraldry is in the coats of arms of the Earls of Ulster, who used a red and gold shield with three wolves’ heads as their emblem. The wolf was also a popular choice for clan crests, particularly in Scotland.

In popular culture, wolves are often associated with the moon, and some heraldic designs incorporate this symbolism by showing the wolf howling at a crescent moon. This usage can be seen in the coat of arms of the U.S. Army’s 10th Mountain Division, which features a wolf howling at a crescent moon.

The wolf is a powerful and evocative symbol in heraldry, representing strength, loyalty, and resilience. Its use in coats of arms and other heraldic designs continues to this day, as a timeless reminder of the enduring power of animal symbolism.

Internal link: coat-of-arms-mantling

Dragons

In heraldry, dragons represent royalty, power, and courage. Although they are mythical creatures, depictions of dragons have been a common feature in coat of arms since the middle ages. Dragons are often depicted as fierce beasts with long, sharp claws and teeth, and large wings. They are usually shown with their mouths open, ready to strike.

In many cultures, dragons are revered as powerful and divine creatures. In Chinese mythology, dragons are associated with strength, good fortune, and prosperity, and are often depicted as benevolent beings. In contrast, European depictions of dragons usually feature the creature as a beast to be feared and defeated. In both cases, dragons represent power and strength, making them a popular choice for coat of arms designs.

One famous example of a dragon in coat of arms is the emblem of Wales, which features a red dragon on a green and white background. This emblem was first used in the 15th century and became a national symbol of Wales, representing the strength and bravery of its people.

In terms of heraldry, dragon charges often represent a person’s aspirations to greatness and power. It is most commonly found in English, Scottish, and Welsh coat of arms. The use of the dragon charge became popular after the conquest of Wales by Edward I of England in the 13th century. To this day, it remains a potent symbol of Welsh heritage and pride.

The dragon charge could be depicted either as an addition to a banner or as a part of a crest on top of a helmet or shield. The color of the dragon and the colors around it could also hold significance. For example, a red dragon on a yellow background is a common and powerful Welsh design, as it represents the dragon of Cadwaladr, a legendary Welsh king.

Dragons symbolize power, strength, and royal authority in coat of arms designs. Their mythical nature makes them a popular addition to any coat of arms, and they are often embraced as a symbol of national pride and heritage.

Unicorns

When it comes to unicorns in coat of arms, they are depicted as a horse-like animal with a single, spiraled horn protruding from its forehead. Unicorns have historically been associated with purity, grace, wisdom, and healing, making them a popular emblem in both European and Middle Eastern coat of arms.

One of the most famed instances of the symbol of the unicorn is the British Coat of Arms. The unicorn is one of the royal supporters of the coat of arms, representing the sovereignty, purity, and virility of the state.

In medieval literature, unicorns were believed to be wild and untamable animals, which symbolized the untamed spirit within an individual. As a symbol of purity, hunters who sought to capture unicorns were believed to be pure of heart, and the unicorn was thought to only voluntarily approach these individuals.

The unicorn is also associated with Christianity. Legend has it that the unicorn could only be tamed by a virgin, much like the Virgin Mary. The unicorn’s horn was also believed to have healing properties, and according to legend, could purify water.

In modern times, the symbolism of the unicorn has taken on a slightly different meaning, with its depiction in popular culture, such as the famous “My Little Pony” franchise, but the general meaning of strength, purity, and grace remains.

The unicorn is a powerful and mystical symbol, and its presence in a coat of arms can add an air of nobility, purity, and strength to the bearer.

Symbolism of Heraldic Colors

In heraldry, colors play an important role in the symbolism of coat of arms. Each heraldic color carries a specific meaning and represents different virtues and characteristics. Let’s take a look at the symbolism of heraldic colors:

Meaning: Red is a symbol of courage, bravery, and strength. It also signifies love and charity.

Usage: Red is often used as a background color for animals such as lions and eagles, as it represents their ferocity and power.

Meaning: Blue symbolizes loyalty, truth, and wisdom. It is also associated with the sky and the sea.

Usage: Blue is often used to represent loyalty and faithfulness in coats of arms, particularly in those of nobility and royalty.

Meaning: Green represents hope, joy, and loyalty in love. It is also associated with nature and growth.

Usage: Green is usually used to represent fertility, abundance, and the bounty of the earth, and can be found often in the coats of arms of families who own land.

Meaning: Gold or yellow symbolizes generosity, understanding and perseverance. Each while also symbolizing wealth and power.

Usage: Gold/Yellow is often used to represent the sun or divine light, and as such, it is often used in coats of arms to represent royalty.

In addition to these colors, there are also secondary colors such as purple, orange, and black, which carry their own symbolism and significance in heraldry.

The colors of coat of arms are a crucial element of heraldry, with each color carrying its unique symbolism and significance, representing different virtues and qualities of the family or individual it represents. When creating a coat of arms, it is important to understand the meaning of each color in order to create a powerful and meaningful emblem.

Red

is one of the most popular colors used in heraldry. It symbolizes courage, strength, and valor. It is often associated with blood and war, making it a powerful color choice for a coat of arms. The use of red can also represent martyrdom and self-sacrifice.

In Christian heraldry, red is often used to symbolize the blood of Christ and the sacrifice he made for humanity. It is associated with martyrdom and is often used on coats of arms for saints and other religious figures.

In addition to its symbolic meaning, the shade of red used in a coat of arms can also be significant. Bright reds, such as scarlet, are often associated with nobility and royalty. Darker shades, such as maroon, can represent sacrifice or mourning.

The placement of red on a coat of arms can also be significant. If red is used as the primary color, it typically represents the dominant theme of the coat of arms. Alternatively, if red is used as a secondary color, it can represent support or assistance to the primary theme.

Red is a versatile and powerful color choice for a coat of arms. Its symbolism and various shades make it a popular choice for many families and organizations.

Blue

Blue is one of the most commonly used colors in coat of arms, and has a range of meanings depending on context. Here are some of the most common interpretations of blue in heraldry:

Symbolism	Description
Truth and Loyalty	One of the most common meanings of blue in coat of arms is truth and loyalty. This interpretation likely stems from the color’s association with the sky and the ocean, both of which are vast and unchanging forces that have been used to represent steadfastness and dependability for centuries.
Piety and Sincerity	In some cases, blue is used to represent piety and sincerity. This interpretation is likely related to the color’s association with religious figures like the Virgin Mary. In this context, blue symbolizes purity, humility, and the desire to be in service to a higher power.
Constancy and Stability	Another interpretation of blue in coat of arms is constancy and stability. This meaning is similar to truth and loyalty, but with a stronger emphasis on the idea that the color represents something that is unchanging and enduring. In some cases, blue may also be associated with tradition and conservatism.
Dependability, Trust, and Confidence	Finally, blue can also be used to represent dependability, trust, and confidence. This interpretation is often tied to the color’s association with law and order, as well as its use in the logos of large corporations and financial institutions. In this context, blue is seen as a color that inspires a sense of trust and stability.

Regardless of the specific interpretation, blue is a color that carries a great deal of weight and significance in coat of arms. As such, it is often used as a dominant color in designs, or paired with other hues to create a sense of balance and harmony. No matter how it is used, though, blue remains a powerful symbol of truth, loyalty, and dependability that is sure to capture the eye and imagination of anyone who sees it on a coat of arms.

Green

is one of the most popular colors found in Coat of Arms. It symbolizes hope, loyalty, and growth. Green also represents the natural world, forests, and fields, which means it can represent agricultural wealth and fertility.

In some Coat of Arms, green is used to represent someone who is young and has great potential. It can also signify a love of nature or a connection to the land. For example, a knight with a green shield charging forward on a horse may be symbolic of someone who is fighting for the protection of the land.

Certain animals are also associated with the color green in Coat of Arms. The dragon, for example, is sometimes depicted in green to symbolize its connection to the earth and nature.

The use of green in Coat of Arms can also have religious connotations. In Christian art, green is often associated with the Resurrection, which means that a Coat of Arms with a green shield may be symbolic of a strong faith or a belief in new beginnings.

The use of green in Coat of Arms can have various meanings depending on the context in which it is used. It can represent growth, youthfulness, fertility, hope, and also has strong ties to the natural world.

Gold/Yellow

Gold or yellow is another popular color in Coat of Arms. It symbolizes generosity, faith, and intellect. This color is often used as a background because of its brightness and majestic appearance.

The use of gold in Coat of Arms dates back to the Byzantine Empire, where it was used as a symbol of imperial power. It was also associated with the sun, which was considered the ultimate source of light and life.

In heraldry, gold is depicted as yellow. It is often used in combination with other colors such as red, blue, and green. The golden eagle is a common charge in Coat of Arms, and it symbolizes strength, courage, and magnificence.

Another animal charge that is often depicted in gold is the lion. A gold lion symbolizes generosity and bravery. It is also associated with royalty and nobility, as the lion was considered the king of beasts.

In addition to animals, other charges that are often depicted in gold include crowns, crosses, and fleur-de-lis. Crowns represent authority and power, while crosses symbolize faith and devotion. Fleur-de-lis is associated with royalty and nobility.

Gold or yellow is a color that is often used in Coat of Arms to symbolize power, wealth, and vibrancy. Its bright and bold appearance makes it a popular choice for many different charges, and it is often used in combination with other colors to create striking designs that are both meaningful and aesthetically pleasing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the animal charges found in coat of arms are more than just simple images. They are steeped in history and symbolism, representing the values and characteristics that families, cities, and countries hold in high regard. Understanding the meaning behind these charges can provide insight into the rich history of heraldry and offer a glimpse into the attitudes and beliefs of those who created them.

To recap, we explored the history of coat of arms and its evolution, looked into the symbolism of some of the most popular animal charges including lions, eagles, bears, wolves, dragons, and unicorns, and discussed the significance of heraldic colors such as red, blue, green, and gold/yellow.

It’s clear that every symbol used in coat of arms has a deep meaning and offers insight into the values of those who adopted it. Even the colors used in these symbols have historical significance. The color red, for example, can represent courage and strength, while green can signify hope and joy.

Overall, understanding the symbolism of animal charges in coat of arms can provide a deeper understanding of the history and values of those who created them. It’s a fascinating subject that rewards those who take the time to explore it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of a Coat of Arms?

A Coat of Arms was designed as a way of identifying particular individuals, families, or groups during medieval times.

What is the origin of the word “Heraldry”?

The word “Heraldry” comes from the French word “herault,” which refers to a messenger or envoy who would convey messages and orders to those in power.

Are there standardized rules for creating a Coat of Arms?

Yes, there are specific guidelines and rules for creating a Coat of Arms. These guidelines vary based on the country and region they originate from.

Can anyone have a Coat of Arms?

While anyone can create a Coat of Arms, it is important to ensure that the design does not infringe on the rights of any existing Coat of Arms or violate any laws or regulations.

What is the significance of animal charges in Coat of Arms?

Animal charges in Coat of Arms were used to indicate certain qualities or characteristics that the individual or group prided themselves on or wanted to convey to others.

Who created the first Coat of Arms?

The first recorded instance of a Coat of Arms is believed to have been created by King Richard the Lionheart of England during the 12th century.

What is the most popular animal charge in Coat of Arms?

The most popular animal charges in Coat of Arms are lions, which have been used by many different countries and families throughout history.

What is the symbolism behind the color gold/yellow in Coat of Arms?

The color gold/yellow in Coat of Arms symbolizes generosity, purity, and elevation of the mind.

Why do Coat of Arms include a shield?

The shield in a Coat of Arms represents protection and defense, as well as being a canvas for displaying various charges and symbols.

Is it common for Coat of Arms to be passed down through generations?

Yes, it is common for Coat of Arms to be passed down through generations as a way of preserving family history and tradition.

References

• Animals on coats of arms – Medieval manuscripts blog