Heraldry refers to the system by which coats of arms and other armorial bearings are devised, described, and regulated. Heraldic examples include coats of arms, crests, badges, flags, and other symbols used to identify individuals, families, institutions, and corporations. Heraldry originated in medieval Europe as a way to identify participants in warfare and tournaments. Over time it evolved into a complex symbolic language with rules governing its design and use.
Origins of Heraldry
The origins of heraldry lie in the need for knights and nobles to identify themselves on the medieval battlefield. As armor covered the entire body, it became difficult to recognize individuals. To address this, symbols were painted onto shields and embroidered onto surcoats worn over armor. These designs were unique to each knight and noble family, allowing them to be identified. Heraldry evolved out of this practical need for visual identification.
By the 12th century, the use of symbolic devices to identify nobles was well established. Heraldry developed into a complex system governed by an intricate set of rules. Specialized officials known as heralds were appointed to administer heraldic law and record coats of arms. As heraldry spread beyond the nobility, it was adopted by towns, guilds, churches, and universities to symbolize their history and achievements.
Elements of Heraldic Design
Heraldic designs consist of several key elements governed by heraldic rules:
- Shield or escutcheon – The primary element where the coat of arms is displayed.
- Ordinary – Simple geometric charges that cover a portion of the shield such as chevrons, crosses, and bars.
- Charge – Heraldic objects such as lions, eagles, fleurs-de-lis, etc. displayed on the shield.
- Tincture – The colors used such as gules (red), azure (blue), sable (black), vert (green). Metals such as gold and silver are also used.
- Crest – Decorative elements above the shield such as a plume of feathers.
- Supporters – Creatures that flank and support the shield.
- Motto – A phrase or slogan accompanying the arms.
These elements follow rules regarding color combinations, placement, and types of charges used. For example, colors cannot be placed directly on top of other colors, and charges must be placed in particular positions to maintain balance and symmetry.
Examples of Heraldic Symbols
Here are some examples of common heraldic charges and their symbolic meanings:
| Charge | Visual Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Lion |  | Courage, strength, royalty |
| Eagle |  | Nobility, vision, power |
| Unicorn |  | Purity, strength, innocence |
| Rose |  | Beauty, love, secrecy |
| Fleur-de-lis |  | French monarchy, purity |
The way these charges are depicted also carries meaning. For example, a lion in a resting position signifies peace, while a lion rampant (upright with forepaws raised) signifies a warrior spirit.
Famous Heraldic Examples
Heraldry is associated with medieval history but remains relevant today. Here are some famous heraldic examples and their histories:
British Royal Coat of Arms
The royal coat of arms represents the sovereign of the United Kingdom. It features a shield divided into four quarters each representing England, Scotland, Ireland, and France. The crest displays a lion representing England and unicorn representing Scotland.
Harvard University Shield
The Harvard shield displays three open books representing education and the motto “VERITAS” meaning truth. It was adopted in 1936 based on the family coat of arms of John Harvard, founder of Harvard College in 1638.
Ferrari Logo
The famous Ferrari logo of the black prancing horse on a yellow shield is based on the heraldic symbol of Francesco Baracca, an Italian aviation hero during World War I. Enzo Ferrari met Baracca’s parents in 1923 and adopted the symbol out of respect for their son.
Sergio Leone Films Logo
Film director Sergio Leone’s production company logo features a heraldic shield surrounded by a lion and a ribbon with the Latin motto “VINCERE CREDERE VINCERE” meaning “To conquer, believe, to conquer.” It symbolized Leone’s cinematic focus on struggle and victory.
Heraldry in the Modern World
While heraldry originated in medieval Europe, it remains relevant today. Examples include:
- National coats of arms are used by countries worldwide as national symbols.
- Civic heraldry represents cities, towns, regions, and provinces.
- Corporate heraldry is used by companies and organizations on logos and crests.
- Personal and family heraldry represents individuals and family lineage.
- Ecclesiastical heraldry represents churches and religious institutions.
Heraldry continues to play an important role in ceremonial occasions in monarchies and at elite institutions such as universities. It also lives on in popular culture through sports team logos, brands, movies, video games, and graphic symbols that draw inspiration from heraldic traditions.
Conclusion
Heraldry comprises a complex symbolic language that originated centuries ago but still impacts visual culture today. With its intricate designs and rules, heraldry serves various functions from conveying identity and status to representing institutions and ideals. The systems and traditions of heraldry provide some of history’s most striking and enduring graphic images.