Heraldry

To ensure they were recognised by all, knights would display their chosen heraldic device as much as they could. Their badge would be found on the surcoat that covered their armour, on their shield, on their banners and on the coverings on their horse. Some even had it painted on their helmet. It was this practise, particularly that of having it on the surcoat, that led to the term ‘coat of arms’.

Once created, a heraldic device would become the property of the family, being passed down from father to son to ensure any reputation built from bravery in battle was maintained. However, this system became so popular that it was soon embraced by people from across the country. Other members of society including members of the church, lawyers and mayors all wanted a heraldic device of their own, as did towns and medieval guilds.

As many people were unable to read and write, heralds were tasked with creating rolls of arms. These contained lists of coats of arms and their owners, including paintings and descriptions that would make them easily recognisable. To achieve this, heralds would visit tournaments, castles and even battlefields confirming their rolls of arms were correct. During quieter times, heralds toured the country on ‘visitations’, ensuring the accuracy of coats of arms throughout towns and cities and making sure rules were followed.

This job was such a vital one that, in 1555, heralds were provided with a permanent base in London within which to keep all their records. Heralds were considered members of the Royal Household and were overseen by Earl Marshal, the Duke of Norfolk. The work was split between three Kings of Arms, six heralds and four pursuivants, or junior heralds. Sadly, the original Collage of Arms was destroyed in the Great Fire of London in 1666, but a new building was constructed on the same site.

See also:

Coats of Arms

Royal Coats of Arms

Charges and Heraldry

Heraldry and Medieval Towns

Heraldic Terms