Copyright © 1995 - Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc.
The period colour of the dachshund was similar to the modern "red" coloured animal. (IoL, 31 Jan 73 [59], p. 4)
It is not necessary to say "palewise hilt in base"; that is normal position for a dagger. (RoH, 25 Apr 71 [17], p. 4)
It is unnecessary to say "a dagger erect gules" since the default position for a dagger is erect. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 2)
N. is said to have wanted daisies and been told to have octofoils. Lady Vesper says daisies are perfectly medieval, if heraldically rare, and she could have had them if she'd asked her. (KFW, 12 Nov 72 [35], p. 1)
N.'s proposed device raised the question of the exact definition of "dancetty." According to S.P. [Seraphim Pursuivant] this term applies only to a line of partition per fess, the said line forming only three peaks. However we have found other sources that admit it as a line of partition in other directions. S.P. suggests retaining the line dancetty per fess with the partition line per pale being a simple vertical. (BdM, 3 Jan 71 [11], p. 1) [This is the modern definition. The medieval dancetty was not a line of partition, but a treatment of a two-sided ordinary.]
Dancetty is by convention of three points. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 5)
The estoiles are of eight points, but we'll leave that out of the blazon because you pre-empt more if you say less. (RoH, 28 Mar 71 [15], p. 1)
The convention for a lion is that it is armed, langued and orbed gules unless either it or the field is of that tincture, in which case it is armed langued and orbed azure. Should a different case, as here, prevail, it is necessary to specify the tinctures. If no tincture is specified, the default tinctures are assumed. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 2)
It's orbed gules, but we won't put that in the blazon. (KFW, 16 Jan 72 [22], p. 4)
She also specified armed argent and langued gules, but those are default colors. Said the Lord Seraphim, How about the lining of his ears? Et responsum est ab omnibus: Don't give her ideas. (KFW, 16 Jan 72 [22], p. 5)
[Screech owl proper.] The Lord Banner doesn't care to differentiate species heraldically. But considering we differentiate the rest of the arms, we needn't cavil at giving people the species they want. (KFW, 11 Mar 73 [39], p. 2)
The difference between "arms" and "a device" is that any member of the Society may have a device, whereas only members of the Nobility may bear arms ... Once a man has been knighted (or attained the rank of Master, or become a member of the Order of the Laurel), his "device" comes under the regulation of the College of Arms. A "device" may or may not conform to the rules of heraldry; if you are not a member of the Nobility, then you have complete freedom of choice in your "device" -- but ... when you become ennobled, you will be granted arms by His Majesty, the King, and your arms must conform to heraldic rules. (RoH, late 1968 [2], p. 11)
It was reaffirmed that a device need not be heraldically correct, but that people who register non-heraldic devices should be warned that they will have to change them if they receive awards of arms. (HB, 15 Feb 70 [3], p. 2)
This can be registered as a device; if she discards the magical symbol ["the symbol of Saturn"] it can also be arms. (HB, 14 May 70 [5], p. 3)
A non-heraldic device was approved for Hal von Ravn ... being the letters M and X, the latter with a bar above it, or the Roman numerals for nine thousand. (HB, 2 Dec 70 [9], p. 2)
The Artisans Guild submitted a design for a badge to be registered by the College. The Lord Laurel dictated a letter in reply, stating that, as the College had been given to understand that the Guild is not a part of the Society, the proposed device was not subject to the jurisdiction of the College. (HB, 1 Jan 71 [10], p. 2)
In addition, Ioseph wrote: "When you register a device from Atenveldt, PLEASE DO NOT REGISTER IT IF IT IS NOT SUITABLE FOR ARMS, unless specified on the form that this will not be used for arms." ... He had explained to Boncueur on the farspeaker that he is trying to inaugurate a policy in Atenveldt that devices as well as arms must be heraldically correct, & desires the College's cooperation in enforcing this policy ... It was declared that this is and has consistently been the College's position; that few exceptions are granted, save occasionally for ladies who (a) indicate they will not attempt to do anything for which they might be rewarded with arms and (b) to not appear upon the fighting field. (HB, 1 Jan 71 [10], p. 4)
The problem was discussed of how closely two sets of arms may resemble one another without causing confusion on the field; and whether such items as color may be used for differencing. As for example, John of Griffin, with vert, a griffin rampant contourny or, and Alfonso be Castile, or, a griffin rampant sable. Now in theory these arms are perfectly acceptable. But will they lead to confusion on the field? Moreover, if the College authorizes both arms, it eliminates the use both of reversing and of color changes as means of differencing. And note that the Board of Directors bears the Society's arms with colors reversed: vert, a laurel wreath or ... Lady Banner suggested that a minimum difference of fifty per centum of the terms of the blazoning be the criterion ... Lord Greencloak suggested that the arms be accepted, since both color and position were different ... and so it was deemed, subject to regula pollicis, that similar arms are acceptable if there is a difference in two of the three: color, charge, and position. (HB, 15 Feb 70 [3], pp. 2-3)
[The rule of three.] This rule states that two-thirds of the parts of the arms submitted must be different from any other set of registered arms. The three parts of the arms are: 1. the color of the field, 2. the main charge and its position, 3. the color of the charge. For example, if someone wanted to register Argent, a lion rampant sable, and there was already registered Argent, a lion rampant gules, it would not be allowed because the color of the field and the position of the lion are the same. (JvG, Summer 1970 [6], p. 11)
The arms are acceptable. Ioseph of Locksley notes that they are like Prince Valiant, but Henrik of Havn's arms are similar to both, yet we consider all three allowable because of differences in secondary charges and in tincture. (RoH, 25 Apr 71 [17], p. 6)
We must make a distinction between the two-of-three difference necessary for arms in the Society, and the one-of-three difference between Society arms and arms from the outside world. We can't insist that Society arms be that different from mundane arms, because mundane arms aren't that different from each other. But we have to be able to distinguish our devices from one another across the field. (KFW, 15 Jul 73 [42], pp. 2-3)
We ask for the date of adoption of the so-called "Rule of One." We find it a good idea, but point out that it remains Our option to decide if a device is "too close." (IoL, 31 Jan 74 [74], p. 6)
see also CONFLICT, PERMISSION
[Sea-serpent ondoyant-emergent.] Ondoyant-emergent is a term coined by the College of Heralds of the West to represent a sea-serpent or other creature drawn as below: [picture] and not to be confused with the same creature dismembered: [picture]. (HB, 26 Jun 72 [54], p. 1) [In the letter of intent of 25 Oct 71, the body of the serpent is described as "emerging from the water at intervals in a wave-like fashion, alternate parts of the body presumed to be underwater."]
A pair of wings of any kind is by convention displayed unless otherwise specified in the blazon. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 1)
Bats are usually shown displayed, so one specifies which wing is closed, rather than which is open. (KFW, 13 Aug 72 [32], p. 2)
We had thought his [charge] to be out of period, but he has documentation to support it. (HB, 7 Feb 71 [12], p. 9)
He supplies documentation (a document by a Franciscan friar born 1305, translated in the National Geographic of October 1917 under the title "Heroic Flags of the Middle Ages") for Solomon's-seals on medieval arms and flags. So much for our argument that they were not used. (KFW, 9 Apr 72 [27], pp. 1-2)
We asked the Lord Laurel, informally, if he planned to accept it, and he answered, unofficially, Are you kidding? Only on presentation of adequate proof, 96 at least. (KFW, 11 Jun 72 [30], p. 7)
If you are attem[p]ting to register an unusual heraldic design, and by that I mean something not commonly used or found in Society Heraldry, then I must ask you to state your source in the letter of intent. (IoL, 19 Dec 72 [57], p. 1)
Rejected devices may be appealed to the Laurel King of Arms by any member of the Imperial College. This must be done within 60 days of the initial rejection, however, and good, solid documentation had better be forthcoming! (IoL, 30 Apr 73 [64], p. 2)
Please cite a precedent for the use of tartan in heraldic Arms. Otherwise, alter the damn thing to better heraldry. (IoL, 31 Jan 74 [75], p. 1)
A dondril was not known to Medieval Europe, but we have too few canting arms. (HB, 14 May 70 [5], p. 4)
The dragon's eye as here drawn is a Germanic symbol. (KFW, 25 Oct 71 [20], Pi. 3)
see ARTISTIC LICENSE
A Sun eclipsed is, by convention, sable. (IoL, 14 Jan 73 [58], p. 8) [This is the mundane definition of a sun eclipsed.]
[Sable, a sun eclipsed Or.] That is, all that can be seen is the corona. This won't conflict with any of the others, and we thought we'd used them up. Such creativity is to be encouraged. (KFW, 11 Mar 73 [39], p. 3) [This is the SCA definition. According to Parker, the mundane sun eclipsed is one that is tinctured sable.]
Our authorities describe the phrase "battled-counterembattled grady" as "fanciful." We will give him ... undy embattled Grady. (KFW, 13 Aug 72 [32], p. 1)
see AUGMENTATION
The Enfield, to the best of the Lord Laurel's information is out of period. (IoL, 31 Mar 75 [79], p. 3)
[Sword enflamed radiant from the blade.] The spelling is because Lord Clarion says that inflamed and infected are too close in the human mind. (HB, 7 Mar 71 [14], p. 10)
The original purpose of arms was to distinguish warriors on the field and in the lists. This same purpose is the main point to consider in choosing arms. For this reason, the College uses as a model Englis[h] Heraldry of the period 1300 to 1450. (JvG, Summer 1970 [6], p. 8)
[Horn argent lipped gules.] This College proposes "lipped" to replace the [F]rench engu[i]che to describe the mouth of a horn. (KFW, 27 Jul 73 [43], p. 2)
The Ensign is the naval flag, unless otherwise specified. To say "Naval ensign" is as much a tautology as to say "chain mail," and is as much to be avoided. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 2) [What about scale mail? KFW]
Since long, narrow objects usually found upright are by convention emblazoned in that position unless otherwise specified in the blazon, and by convention with the business end (point of a sword, for instance) up, it is unnecessary to say "a mace erect." An exception to this rule is the arrow, which is usually shown with the head down. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 2)
No, N., you may not have erminit[e]s (ermine but with a red stripe on each side of [the] central tail). (HB, 18 Oct 70 [7], p. 2)
The Lord Laurel said that (1) pean was not a fur allowed by the College; (2) N. could have no exceptions. (HB, 1 Jan 71 [10], p. 4) [The term pean was said to be out of period, although one could apparently have a field sable, ermined Or.]
If (as has been indicated) the Board of Directors has reserved ermines to itself, the Lord Laurel has not heard of it. (HB, 7 Mar 71 [14], p. 7)
The Imperial College of Arms now uses the term "Counter-ermine" in lieu of "Ermines," since the latter can be too easily confused with "Ermine" and "Erminois." (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 1)
Or on ermine is not going to be very easily visible across the field, but this is his problem; we don't even know if he fights. (KFW, 16 Jul 72 [31], p. 1)
see ERMINE
see ERMINE
Any Society member may design a device to fit upon whichever shape shall be found most pleasing and satisfactory to him or her alone, and may bear his or her device indifferently upon a lozenge or upon an escutcheon; and scribes, calligraphers, and heraldic artists may in the preparation of scrolls or other documents of State, follow the individual preference of the Society member in question, or, in the absence of any preference expressed by the member, may follow their own inclinations at the bidding of their artistic conscience. (HB, 24 Jun 72 [52], p. 1)
see also SHIELDS ON SHIELDS
The estoiles are of eight points, but we'll leave that out of the blazon because you pre-empt more if you say less. (RoH, 28 Mar 71 [15], p. 1)
"Cojoined in estoile" = like spokes of a wheel, or radii of a circle. Creative blazonry ... (KFW, 25 Oct 71 [20], p. 2)
[Semy of stars a naturelle.] Creative heraldry: "A NATURELLE" [sic] means simply that the stars are not mullets nor estoiles, but are drawn in varying ways, as real stars look. (IoL, 31 Jan 74 [74], p. 1) [This is a misnomer. The French idiom au naturel uses the definite article, and is masculine in gender. In French blazon, it means proper.]
The Lord Laurel said that (1) pean was not a fur allowed by the College; (2) N. could have no exceptions. (HB, 1 Jan 71 [10], p. 4) [The term pean was said to be out of period, although one could apparently have a field sable, ermined Or.]
[Leodamas of Thebes.] Since time was short (the man was on his deathbed, and has since died), we expedited the document through the Lord Laurel's office and got it accepted by him; the scroll was done the following day and taken to Calafia in time to be given to Leodamas' family. (KFW, 13 Aug 72 [32], p. 2)
see also GRANDFATHER CLAUSE
[Spider extended.] It is noted that a spider may be extended, or collected, or perhaps a spider rampant, displayed, couchant and statant. (HB, 2 Dec 70 [9], p. 1) [Extended and collected appear to describe the disposition of the spider's legs.]
[A domestick catt sejant, paw extended.] By convention it is the dexter paw that is extended when none other is specified. (KFW, 25 Oct 71 [20], p. 1)
The dragon's eye as here drawn is a Germanic symbol. (KFW, 25 Oct 71 [20], p. 3)
[Human eye proper.] Proper tincture is: lashed sable, orbed argent, pupiled azure, outlined gules. (IoL, 31 Jan 73 [59], p. 4)
A "hand of Fat[i]ma" is a conventionalized hand-shaped figure with three fingers between two "thumbs." (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 4)
The emblem of a bear statant was registered to Sir Caradoc ap Cador ... The emblem of a grape-leaf and tendril was registered to Sir Bela of Eastmarch. (HB, 1 Jan 71 [10], p. 2) [Both badges were registered without field or tincture.]
He is worried about badges. We must tell him they aren't heraldic. We don't require fields on badges; we just don't forbid them. Consider the badges of Ravnsgaard (MX) and Eastmarch (a vine leaf and tendril), neither of which have tinctures specified, let alone fields. (KFW, 13 Aug 72 [32], pp. 3-4)
The use of fimbriation is incorrect; it is used to avoid color on color or metal on metal, rather than to introduce it. (RoH, 25 Apr 71 [17], p. 7)
Any artist worth his flake white will fimbriate the [gold charge where it passes] over the argent. (KFW, 13 Aug 72 [32], p. 1) [This "fimbriation" appears to have been simple artistic delineation. It was not included in either the submitted or the final blazon.]
They didn't use fimbriation very much in the Middle Ages, which ... will differentiate us from just about anything. (KFW, 13 May 73 [41], p. 1)
[A sword argent, the blade radiant with flames gules.] Lord Clarion steadfastly refuses to approve the flaming sword. In fact, nothing rayed with flames appears in medieval heraldry. (HB, 7 Feb 71 [12], p. 10)
[Sword enflamed radiant from the blade.] The spelling is because Lord Clarion says that inflamed and infected are too close in the human mint. (HB, 7 Mar 71 [14], p. 10)
"Fire proper" or "Flames of fire proper" is represented as tongues of flame; if the field is of a metal, the outermos[t] tongues are gules and the inner or; if the field is of a colour, the outer are or, the inner gules. (RoH, 28 Mar 71 [16], p. 3)
"Flames of fire proper" consist, heraldically, of an odd number of tongues rayonny tinctured or and gules. If shown on a colour, the two outermost tongues are or; if on a metal, the two outermost tongues are gules. Within this scheme the tongues then alternate tinctures. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 4)
By the example of Robert Roundpounder, flames can act as insulation against color on color. (KFW, 13 Feb 72 [24], p. 1)
The Ensign is the naval flag, unless otherwise specified. To say "Naval ensign" is as much a tautology as to say "chain mail," and is as much to be avoided. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 2) [What about scale mail? KFW]
[In the fly.] That's the outside of the flag, as opposed to the hoist, which is the inside. (KFW, 9 Apr 72 [27], p. 5) [With the mast or staff on the viewer's left, "in the fly" thus means "to the sinister."]
see FIRE
[In the fly.] That's the outside of the flag, as opposed to the hoist, which is the inside. (KFW, 9 Apr 72 [27], p. 5) [With the mast or staff on the viewer's left, "in the fly" thus means "to the sinister."]
"Forcene" is rearing furiously, said of a horse, but as Brigantia points out unicorns are goats, so it should be not forcene but clymant. (KFW, 17 Dec 72 [36], p. 4) [The final blazon was forceny.]
A "fountain," in traditional heraldry, is a roundel barry wavy argent and azure, representing a spring, pond, lake, etc. (HB, 18 Oct 70 [8], p. 4)
[Cross potent rebated in annulo.] In plain terms, he wanted an ancient Indo-European sun disk, or fylfot, sometimes known as a swastika, a rounded version thereof. And there was great debate on all sides. It boiled town to this: nobody objected to the sun disk, and everybody objected to the word swastika, and so the blazon was carefully reworded. (KFW, 16 Jan 72 [22], p. 4) [The submission was approved.]
[Sable, three stalks of wheat as in a garb, Or.] This is creative heraldry. The centre stalk is palewise; the two remaining follow roughly what would be the outlines of a pair of flaunches. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 5)
Seraphim wanted a draconopterygian leonine gargoyle, but even for the pun we can't call that a gargoyle. Gargoyle is from gurgle, they're glorified rainspouts that let the runoff out through their mouths and keep it off the eavesdrip, and the critters on Notre Dame aren't gargoyles, they're grotesques. (KFW, 16 Jul 72 [31], p. 4) [The pun was an attempted cant on the given name Garryl.]
[Brilliant cut emerald.] We are not certain whether jewels were faceted then, but do not consider it that vital. (RoH, 25 Apr 71 [17], p. 5)
[Jeweled collar proper.] "Proper" means gold with assorted colored jewels on it. Jewelry is gold by default, even on or. (KFW, 12 Mar 72 [26], p. 2) [The collar was registered as gules, but this may have been an error.]
If you to not know what a brilliant-cut emerald looks like from above, ask your local jeweller. [HB, 26 Jun 72 [54], p. 3)
[Brown bears proper.] We must have the Latin name of Bears that are only coloured brown. (IoL, 31 Jan 73 [60], p. 1)
We have a precedent for the usage of the "Brown Bear proper" in SCA heraldry already. (IoL, 30 Apr 73 [64], p. 2) [I.e., genus and species were not required.]
It was inquired whether female unicorns also have beards, since nanny goats have. Lady Banner indignantly protested that a unicorn is not a nanny goat, but it is. (RoH, 28 Mar 71 [15], p. 7) [According to Franklyn and Tanner, "the unicorn is basically a goat, having cloven hooves and being bearded; further, when in the rampant attitude, the unicorn may be blazoned as clymant." Other sources speak of the unicorn as being small "like a kit." Most of the authorities agree, however, that the body and appearance of the unicorn are those of a horse.]
Although we heartily dislike the use of symbols of black magic on the field or anywhere else, we cannot formally object to the use of a goat's head cabossed. However, if he had placed the goat's head within a pentacle, it would then be restricted; the Templars were accused of using this sign and it was partly for that reason that they were disbanded. (RoH, 25 Apr 71 [17], p. 3)
"Forcene" is rearing furiously, said of a horse, but as Brigantia points out unicorns are goats, so it should be not forcene but clymant. (KFW, 17 Dec 72 [36], p. 4) [The final blazon was forceny.]
A gore is not a field division but a charge, and this device violates tincture. (HB, 7 Mar 71 [14], p. 4)
In the fanciful system of "rebatements" evolved by decadent heralds later than our period, a gore was a rebatement for cowardice. However, in this system, the rebatements were always of the stains, particularly tenne. Neither stains nor abatements have so far been allowed to intrude upon the purity of Society heraldry, so the gore sinister in this case is simply another pretty kind of partition of the field. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 3) [The gore is a charge, not a partition of the field.]
We have said in previous cases that once allowed a device is allowed and there is nothing we can do. Perhaps we need to think about this. (KFW, 11 Jul 71 [19], p. 2)
This falls under the Grandfather Clause. (IoL, 1 Sep 73 [70], p. 2) [The Grandfather Clause appears to have been invoked because the coat, which differed by only one point from mundane arms, had been borne since the earliest days of the Society.]
This badge falls under the Grandfather Clause, and is limited to the exclusive use of N. while reigning as King. (IoL, 1 Sep 73 [70], p. 3)
The new Arms for the Barony of N. have no Laurel Wreath, but as they were passed originally without, then the alteration may stand without them. (IoL, 28 Feb 75 [78], p. la)
see GARGOYLE
Is there any rule against skulls and other grewsome charges? Alas, there is not. (KFW, 14 May 72 [29], p. 2)
The gurges on N.'s Viking ship sail should not be colour-and-colour, but colour-and-metal. Apparently a gurges is not treated like a field party; the present case would be a violation of the rule of tincture. (BdM, 3 Jan 71 [11], p. 1)
[Four gyrons gules and argent issuant from dexter chief.] If you are confused by this, imagine it as the 4th quarter of a gyronny of sixteen. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 5)
N. wants all manner of confused charges on a gyronny of thirty-two. A gyronny of more than sixteen looks like nothing more than a modern dart board. (HB, 7 Mar 71 [14], p. 5)
[Gyronny of three arrondi.] The Harleian manuscript of Henry VI has one and says it is ancient. (RoH, 25 Apr 71 [17], p. 1)
Gyronny is by convention of eight unless otherwise specified. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 1)
[Gyronny of three arrondi, gules, Or, and purpure.] Alternative blazons for this pinwheel-like field division are "Tierced in gyrons arrondi" and "Tierced in gyron gyronnant." We believe the first one given is the clearest and most descriptive, for someone who has acquired the basic heraldic vocabulary. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 5)
A "hand of Fat[i]ma" is a conventionalized hand-shaped figure with three fingers between two "thumbs." (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 4)
The red hand is the symbol of the baronets of Ulster, and he can't have it. (Even though he's a descendant of Ulstermen. Even if he were a descendant of Ulster baronets, he can't have it in the Society, it's an augmentation from the Queen.) (KFW, 13 May 73 [41], p. 2)
[Three heads of St. Cybi proper.] What are the attributes of St. Cybi? (Pronounced, N. tells us, Cubby.) Irish tonsure (no hair showing in front), short abbot's mitre, and nimbus. (KFW, 14 Jan 73 [37], p. 3) [The final blazon specified "aureoled Or."]
It was discussed how the different members of the College of Heralds may be distinguished at sight. There is in tradition the rule that only the King-at-Arms may wear fur trim to his cloak. But the College does not care for sumptuary laws, and the Lord Laurel King-at-Arms has no objection, so that rule is now no more ... The Lord Laurel has determined to have made by the Jewelers' Guild certain discs of orichalcum bearing the laurel wreath and the individual titles, viz., Laurel, Clarion, Banner, Greencloak, and Aten. And lesser members of the College shall wear a pin of crossed trumpets ... It was noted that the citizenry of the Society need only look for a green cloak to know they are dealing with a Herald. Moreover, the discs and pins can be worn without the cloaks, to show that one is in the College of Heralds but is off duty. (HB, 15 Feb 70 [3], p. 1)
First and foremost, a Herald is neutral. His job is to speak and not to judge. He never signs petitions in the name of his office, he never judges combats, and never the combatants themselves. If asked a question he speaks fact and not opinion. (HB, Spring 1970 [4], p. 15)
It is a false and scurrilous rumor that members of the College are required to make puns at every opportunity. A proper College member does this automatically and needs no encouragement. (HB, Spring 1970 [4], p. 16)
The goal of the College of Heralds is the registration of all members of the Society with arms that are clear, distinctive and pleasing to their owners. (JvG, Summer 1970 [6], p. 8)
On this day decisions were made on many arms, the great bulk of which caused the Lord Laurel King-at-Arms to repeat his motto, which is, Semper scriptum capere, or, Always get it in writing. To which the Lady Banner Herald replied that the motto of the King-at-Arms of England is Miserere mei Deus, secundum magnam misericordiam tuam. [Have mercy upon me, O Got, according to Thy great mercy.] And all agreed that it behooved a herald frequently and loudly to call upon the mercy of God. (HB, 2 Dec 70 [9], p. 1)
Turning to business of the National College of Heralds, Lord Clarion Herald suggested a change in title to Great College. And Lady Banner Herald said that we all know it ought to be Imperial College, but we do not have an Empire. But Lord Greencloak Pursuivant said, Sooner or later there will be an Empire; why not start it ourselves? And Lord Laurel King-at-Arms, as head of the National College, told them all that he would consider it himself. (HB, 7 Feb 71 [12], p. 1)
Let it be noted that the difference between heraldry in the Old Middle Ages and in the Current Middle Ages is that the heralds of old enjoyed inventing elaborate wording to mystify the populace, but we don't care to. They, be it noted, were trying to attain job security. We are trying to avoid working so hard. (RoH, 28 Mar 71 [15], p. 4)
The College of the Kingdom of the West has found itself bogged down by the fact that other Kingdoms are required to submit blazons only, and not emblazons, making it difficult for this College to decide upon the validity of the various devices submitted, which may be and in some cases definitely are misblazoned. We would like to request, therefore, that it be made a rule of the National College of Arms that tricked emblazons be also submitted with the blazons by other Kingdoms of the Empire ... Furthermore, if the files of the College of Arms are to be complete, then we must have the usual drawings and submissions that we have heretofore had. Unless the people from various Kingdoms are on file here, these individuals theoretically do not exist. A simple sheet of paper with a long list of blazons on it is difficult, if not impossible, to file. (RoH, 25 Apr 71 [17], p. 8) [At this time the College of the West and the College of Arms, though officially separate, were housed in the same building and staffed by some of the same people. KFW]
Let me specify that it is now and always has been the policy of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc., and of the College of Arms, that the official language for Society documents, proceedings, ceremonies and communications of any kind whatsoever is English, nor should any other language be used as the principal medium of official Society documents, proceedings, ceremonies or communications. (RoH, 14 Sep 71 [46], p. 2)
There have been small complaints of heralds ignoring the King's wishes and attempting to marshal fights. Master Frederick stated, firstly, that the Heralds are the King's voice and should pay heed to him; secondly, that a Herald by definition has no opinion of fighting. When Master Frederick is asked, as a belted fighter, for his opinion of a fight, he takes off his Pursuivant's tabard in order to give it. (KFW, 9 Apr 72 [27], p. 4)
Kingdom Colleges of Heralds do not have separate arms. (KFW, 14 May 72 [29], p. 2)
Letters of notification of registration of Arms or devices with the Imperial College will no longer be sent out by the Imperial College of Arms. It is the responsibility of the Principal Herald of each Kingdom, henceforth, to inform a Society member subject of his Kingdom of the registration of his Arms or Device by the Imperial College, or to cause the member to be informed by some one of his subordinates. Such notification must be made IN WRITING; and a copy of such notification must be kept by the Principal Herald of the Kingdom in his files, such that upon request it or a fa[cs]imile thereof may be produced for the inspection of the Laurel King of Arms, should any question ever arise about the member's having been notified ... Likewise, letters of rejection of Arms or devices by the Imperial College will no longer be sent out by the Imperial College of Arms. The Imperial College will notify the Principal Herald of the Kingdom in writing of the rejection, the reasons therefor, and the suggestions that may be applicable on how the submission may be improved so as to be acceptable to the Imperial College. It is then the responsibility of the Kingdom Herald to notify or cause to be notified IN WRITING the said member, subject to the same provisions as in the foregoing paragraph. (HB, 25 Jun 72 [53], pp. 1-2)
We note that the Imperial Electors [Board of Directors] have ruled that Lady Karina's title may not be Sequoia Herald, since Sequoia was a historical personage. (KFW, 16 Jul 72 [31], p. 2)
Father Ruthven has suggested we have as our motto Honi soit qui mal y puns. We suggest he keep it as his own. We'll keep Scribendum est, or, if the scroll does not exist, then the scroll does not exist. (KFW, 15 Oct 72 [34], p. 1)
All Kingdom Colleges of Heralds use the Arms of the Imperial College of Arms, just as all Earl Marsha[l]s use the Arms of the Imperial Marshalate, and all Seneschals, Mistresses of Arts, Masters of Sciences and Medics use the appropriate Imperial Arms. (IoL, 31 Jan 73 [60], p. 1)
Don't even bother sending in Arms for the [kingdom] College of Heralds. You can't have them, and must use the Arms of the Imperial College. We are, after all, one group. (IoL, 18 Jun 73 [66], p. 2)
Dragon Herald's Office (badge): A mountainside showing a cave mouth with 2 bou[l]ders on each side, issuing two tendrils of smoke, and encircling all a mott[o]: "Ubi draco latet." ["Where the dragon hides."] (IoL, 31 Jan 74 [74] p. 2) [Given without tinctures for use as a seal. KFW]
I disapprove of introducing hieroglyphics, alchemists' signs, and talismanic figures into heraldry. I think it would be fun to develo[p] canting arms based on hieroglyphics - provided the [charges] were arranged harmoniously and drawn heraldically ... But to lift symbolic objects straight out of Egypt, drawing style and all, is going too far. (KFW, 31 Jan 72 [23], pp. 1-2)
By Society convention, the word "hilted" covers "quill[o]ned" and "pommelled" when all three are of the same tincture. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 1)
[In the fly.] That's the outside of the flag, as opposed to the hoist, which is the inside. (KFW, 9 Apr 72 [27], p. 5) [With the mast or staff on the viewer's left, "in the fly" thus means "to the sinister."]
[Horn argent lipped gules.] This College proposes "lipped" to replace the [F]rench engu[i]che to describe the mouth of a horn. (KFW, 27 Jul 73 [43], p. 2)
"Forcene" is rearing furiously, said of a horse, but as Brigantia points out unicorns are goats, so it should be not forcene but clymant. (KFW, 17 Dec 72 [36], p. 4) [The final blazon was forcene.]
The rule as it now stands is that a person may register a badge, which may then be worn by his household; but the household itself may not register a badge lest the household disintegrate and the proper use of the badge be in doubt. (HB, 7 Feb 71 [12], p. 2)
BADGE registered to himself (he may not register it to the name of his household, because names of households are NOT the concern of the College of Arms and are not to be registered, at least at this time). (HB, 26 Jun 72 [54], p. 1)
Until officially informed otherwise, the Lord Laurel must take the position that Clan N. is a household like any other household and the College does not register households. It cannot be registered as a badge to any individual because each King appoints a new Chieftain ... When he [Laurel] has received a letter from the King of [kingdom], stating that Clan N. falls within the category of those organizations that qualify as service organizations, he will register it to the Crown of [kingdom]. (HB, 5 Aug 72 [56], p. 1)
[Vert, three billets argent winged Or.] The billets are palewise and 2+1 by default. Billets fesswise were suggested, but it transpires that fesswise they are not billets but humets, which would destroy the canting arms. (KFW, 13 Feb 72 [24], p. 1)
see MARSHALLING
[Sword enflamed radiant from the blade.] The spelling is because Lord Clarion says that inflamed and infected are too close in the human mind. (HB, 7 Mar 71 [14], p. 10)
Parents may register arms for their children, but it is understood that when the child reaches the age when he can decide for himself he may change them. No child will inherit arms or titles from his parents; he must earn them. Children, like other belongings, are easily identified if they wear their parents' arms. In the case of children, as distinguished from campstools and t[o]urney chests, marks of cadenc[y] can be used. (JvG, Summer 1970 [6], p. 10)
Note that as part of the rule of showing objects in the position in which they are used, weapons are shown point in chief, unless otherwise specified, as "inverted." (RoH, 28 Mar 71 [15], p. 1)
[Kraken inverted.] By "inverted" does he mean tentacles in chief or in base? The tentacles, being the business end of the kraken, would in normal position be in chief, and a kraken inverted would be tentacles in base. (RoH, 25 Apr 71 [17], p. 7)
A serpent "involved" is one rolled into a circle with its tail in its mouth. (HB, 26 Jun 72 [54], p. 2) [The serpent's head is on the sinister side of the shield, facing dexter.]
If he says he is going by Islamic heraldry, we will say that in Islam he could not have a feather as a charge, because it is too close to something alive. (HB, 7 Mar 71 [14], p. 5) [We have not actually checked Islamic heraldry. KFW]
This is a paynim device but is acceptable. (RoH, 25 Apr 71 [17], p. 1) [It should be noted that, although comments were made on several occasions that a device was not in keeping with the religious precepts of the submitter's persona, I can find no record of a submission having been rejected solely on these grounds. In the present case, the submission was approved.]
A Jaculus is a winged, leaping snake. (IoL, 31 Mar 75 [79], p. 1)
see GEM
If he is going to be a proper Jew, he must remember that Mosaic law prohibits the portrayal of living creatures or parts thereof (cf. the prohibition in Exodus against graven images). (KFW, 13 Jun 71 [18], p. 3)
The Lord Banner points out that while the Mogen David was in use in the middle ages, it wasn't then the badge of the Jew. O well. (KFW, 13 May 73 [41], p. 1)
The Society's convention, the opposite of that in most mundane heraldry, is that the wards of the key, though they are drawn to dexter, are shown downward. This is because the original use of a key, for the Seneschal's office, was so emblazoned in the early days of the Society. (HB, 20 Sep 71 [47], p. 3)
N. wishes an eagle holding a kleestangel. Aside from the kleestangel (an item of German heraldry which must be researched), the Lord Laurel must search out to determine whether it is the imperial German eagle. (HB, 2 Dec 70 [9], p. 3) [According to Franklyn and Tanner, the klee-stengeln is "a development of the eagle's wing-bone used in Germanic heraldry; the wings (displayed) appear to be charged along the upper edge with a barrulet ... issuant of the bird's body, and terminating at the outer end in a trefoil."]
Seraphim Pursuivant agree[d] to accept it without [the] klee-stengel after long discussion thereupon. Clarion: "We don't like it." S.P.: "Ignorant barbarians." (HB, 1 Jan 71 [10], p. 2)
The figure-eight knot will be quite familiar to any sailor. (IoL, 14 Jan 73 [58], p. 17)
[Kraken inverted.] By "inverted" does he mean tentacles in chief or in base? The tentacles, being the business end of the kraken, would in normal position be in chief, and a kraken inverted would be tentacles in base. (RoH, 25 Apr 71 [17], Pi. 7)
The serpent, or bass cornetto, is a Renaissance musical instrument and hence post-1485, but then so were those krummhorns. (KFW, 9 Apr 72 [27], p. 2)
By convention the bells are in base; they are played in that position. (HB, 5 Aug 72 [55], p. 1)
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