What does a shield mean on a coat of arms?

emblem of defense
SHIELD: Used as an emblem of defense. SPUR: An emblem of readiness to do battle. SQUIRREL: An early symbol of patience and perseverance. STAG: A very common heraldic animal, often shown “at gaze.” An emblem of one who will fight if provoked.

What is the design on the shield of a coat of arms called?

A coat of arms is a heraldic visual design on an escutcheon (i.e., shield), surcoat, or tabard. The coat of arms on an escutcheon forms the central element of the full heraldic achievement which in its whole consists of: shield, supporters, crest, and motto.

What do the symbols on shields mean?

These symbols were meant to denote the exact family or person represented as well as certain traits that the owner of the coat of arms wanted to be associated with his identity. Animals, plants of different types and trees, birds of various types and fruits were commonly used as shield symbols.

Why does my family have a coat of arms?

The symbols on a coat of arms are meant to represent the achievements of the person, state, or corporation to whom or which the arms were granted. Once a family started using a coat of arms, it was passed down through the generations, from one to the other, even down to the present day.

Can I design my own coat of arms?

You may certainly design your own coat of arms, and there’s even websites to help you do so (see below). You can also have it registered with the American College of Heraldry, which recommends you follow these guidelines when designing your own: Make sure your design is unique.

Can anyone have a coat of arms?

Coats of arms belong to individuals. For any person to have a right to a coat of arms they must either have had it granted to them or be descended in the legitimate male line from a person to whom arms were granted or confirmed in the past.

What does the shield mean in the coat of arms?

The Shield. The escutcheon or field on which are placed the bearings in coats of arms is known as the shield. This comes from the fact that in medieval times the shield borne on the arm of a knight was ornamented with various devices in order to identify him to his friends in the midst of battle.

What does this coat of arms symbolize?

Coat of arms, the principal part of a system of hereditary symbols dating back to early medieval Europe, used primarily to establish identity in battle. Arms evolved to denote family descent, adoption, alliance, property ownership , and, eventually, profession .

What does the coat of arm symbols symbolize?

Symbols that are found within the shield of a coat of arms will signify the relationship to the original grantee, or father . They are known as differences of marks of cadency.

What does it mean to have coat of arms?

Coat of arms. A coat of arms is a unique heraldic design on a shield, escutcheon, surcoat, or tabard . A coat of arms is used to cover, protect, and identify the wearer. Thus the term is often stated as “coat-armour”, because it was anciently displayed on the front of a coat of cloth in European societies.