blazon

heraldry

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feature of armorial bearings

  • Image shows a seal depicting several mythical creatures fighting.
    In heraldry: The nature and origins of heraldic terminology

    Heraldic descriptions are called blazons. The term is derived from the French blason, the etymology of which is uncertain. Originally it denoted the shield of arms itself and still retains that meaning, but it is now generally used in a derivative sense as meaning the description of the arms.…

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heraldry

roll of arms, illuminated manuscript describing (blazoning) and often illustrating (emblazoning) the arms of persons present at a particular battle or tournament. In addition to their historical interest, these rolls are excellent examples of heraldic art. There has been no break in the compilation of rolls of arms for official purposes since their origin in the mid-13th century. The official registers of heraldic administrations (such as those of the Lyon Court in Scotland) still maintain collections of rolls of arms recording armorial ensigns and insignia of historical import. See also heraldry.