Designing A Coat Of Arms: Essential Elements And Their Meanings

A coat of arms is a heraldic visual design that dates back to the 1100s, when knights and royalty wore them on shields and outfits to distinguish themselves in battle or tournaments. The basic structure includes a shield, supporters, a crest, and a motto. The shield, or escutcheon, is the central element, bearing symbolic images representing the family, individual, or organisation the coat of arms is designed for. On either side of the shield, there may be supporters—objects, animals, or humans—that appear to hold up the shield. Above the shield sits a helmet and a crest, with a motto, originally a battle cry, displayed on a scroll above or below the shield. While coats of arms were once associated with nobility, today, anyone can petition for a grant or assume arms, as long as they meet certain prerequisites, such as having no criminal convictions and being able to prove their gentility.

The shield

The number of sections on the shield can vary, but it is common to have three or more sections. Each section typically contains a different colour or pattern, with specific rules governing the use of colours in heraldry. For example, gold and silver (represented by yellow and white) are not usually depicted touching each other, nor are green, blue, and red. Other colours used in heraldry include purple, black, and brown, but these are less frequently used.

The images or symbols on the shield often hold personal significance to the individual or family it represents. For example, a lion is a common symbol of power and sovereignty and is often used on monarchical coats of arms. Eagles are also common, especially in the arms of former European monarchies. Inanimate objects, such as crowns or chains, can also be used as symbols on the shield.

The shape of the shield is also important and can vary depending on the country and heraldic tradition. For example, in the heraldic traditions of England and Scotland, the shield is typically shaped like a rectangle with a curved top, while in other countries, the shield may be more rounded or have a different shape altogether.

In addition to the shield, other elements can be added to the coat of arms, such as supporters (which can take the form of beasts, humans, or inanimate objects), a crest, and a motto. Together, these elements create a unique and identifiable coat of arms.

Supporters

The type of supporter chosen is a matter of personal preference, and can be beasts, humans, or even inanimate objects. In the case of the royal coat of arms of the United Kingdom, the supporters are a lion and a unicorn, representing England and Scotland respectively. The coat of arms of Eswatini features a lion and an elephant as supporters, symbolising the king and queen mother, the nation's joint heads of state.

When choosing supporters, it is important to be mindful and humble. For example, it is generally not advisable to include crowns, even if one was born in a royal borough. Instead, it is recommended to make abstract references to one's life, such as using a star as a symbol for stored energy and light, or a depiction of Hermes, the messenger of the Greek gods, if one works in communications.

Crest

The crest is an important component of a coat of arms, and is often the most elaborate and visually striking part. The crest sits on top of the helmet, which in turn sits on top of the shield, and is designed to make the wearer appear taller, more ferocious, and impressive. The crest is usually an intricate and ornate design, often featuring an animal, a mythical creature, or a combination of both. It can also include other symbols such as crowns, coronets, or plants.

The crest is typically the most creative and decorative part of a coat of arms, with intricate details and vibrant colours. It is often the focal point of the design, drawing the eye upwards and creating a sense of height and majesty. The crest can be designed to reflect the achievements, values, or aspirations of the person or family it represents. For example, a crest may feature a lion to symbolise strength and courage, or an eagle to represent power and leadership.

In addition to the visual impact, the crest also has a practical purpose. On the battlefield, the crest would make the knight appear taller and more intimidating to their opponents. The height provided by the crest also allowed the knight to be easily identified by their allies, even from a distance. This was particularly important when knights wore heavy armour and helmets that obscured their faces and hid any distinctive features.

The design of the crest is also subject to certain rules and conventions. For example, the colours used should be distinct and easily distinguishable, with gold and silver (represented by yellow and white) typically avoided next to each other, as should green, blue, and red. This ensures that the design can be clearly seen from a distance. The crest, along with the rest of the coat of arms, is also unique to the individual or family it represents, with no two coats of arms being exactly alike.

The crest is an essential part of a coat of arms, completing the design and adding a personal and distinctive touch. It is a symbol of identity, honour, and heritage, and its design is carefully considered to reflect the values and characteristics of the person or family it represents.

Motto

A coat of arms is a heraldic visual design that traditionally represents an individual, family, state, organisation, school, or corporation. The motto is an optional component of a coat of arms, though it is a great way to represent a family's unique identity and legacy. In England, mottos are not mentioned in a patent of arms, but a herald will happily add one if desired.

When creating a motto, consider including aspects of your name, beliefs, values, or heritage. You can also draw inspiration from legends, historical events, or your family's unique identity.

Colours

The colours used in a coat of arms are an important aspect of its design and can be used to create a visually appealing and distinctive composition. Here are some things to consider when choosing colours for a coat of arms:

Traditional Colours:

In heraldry, certain colours have been traditionally used and are considered standard. These colours include red, blue, black, green, purple, orange, and yellow. These colours are often used as a base or background for the shield and other elements.

Contrast and Visibility:

It is important to choose colours that contrast well with each other to ensure the design is clear and visible from a distance. For example, gold and silver (represented by yellow and white) are typically not placed next to each other, nor are green, blue, and red. This rule also applies to other colour combinations to avoid clashing or making the design difficult to discern.

Symbolic Meanings:

While there is no universal agreement on the symbolic meanings of colours in heraldry, some associations have been made over time. For instance, gold or yellow may signify honour, purity, or wealth; red can represent courage, strength, or military prowess; blue can suggest loyalty, truth, or peace; and green can symbolise growth, hope, or honour. However, it is important to note that these interpretations are not standardised, and the choice of colours should be based on personal preference and significance.

Personal Significance:

The colours chosen for a coat of arms can hold personal meaning for the individual or family it represents. For example, they can reflect the colours associated with a particular profession, such as using a shade of blue for someone in a maritime career. The colours can also be inspired by the natural environment, family origins, or other unique aspects that resonate with the bearer.

Variety and Balance:

While it is essential to maintain a cohesive colour scheme, incorporating a variety of colours can make the coat of arms more visually interesting. Balancing the use of colours across the design ensures that no single colour dominates or creates an imbalanced composition. This balance can be achieved by using colours in different proportions or by distributing them evenly across the shield and its elements.

Consistency and Harmony:

Maintaining a harmonious colour scheme is crucial in a coat of arms. This can be achieved by using analogous colours (colours next to each other on the colour wheel) or complementary colours (colours opposite each other on the colour wheel). By following these colour relationships, the design will appear more cohesive and aesthetically pleasing.

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