Coat of arms of Leeds

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Coat of Arms of Leeds City Council

Coat of arms of Leeds is the official heraldic emblem of Leeds, a city in West Yorkshire, England. The coat of arms, granted to the city in 1921, encapsulates the local history, industry, and culture of Leeds. This article delves into the components, symbolism, and history of the Leeds coat of arms.

Components and Symbolism

The coat of arms of Leeds is rich in symbolism, reflecting the city's heritage and aspirations. The main elements of the arms include:

• Shield: The central feature is a silver shield, which displays a golden fleece suspended from a red ring. The fleece, a symbol of the woolen industry, signifies Leeds' historical importance as a center of the wool trade. The shield also features three stars, known as mullets, which are derived from the arms of the local Lacy family, historical lords of the manor.

• Crest: Above the shield, the crest shows an owl from the Leeds family crest, carrying a scroll. The owl is a traditional symbol of wisdom and is also associated with Leeds as a city of learning and education.

• Supporters: On either side of the shield stand two owls, echoing the crest and further emphasizing Leeds' commitment to knowledge. These supporters rest on a compartment of rocks and moorland, representing the natural landscape of the surrounding area.

• Motto: The motto of Leeds, "Pro rege et lege," translates from Latin as "For the king and the law," underscoring the city's loyalty and governance principles.

History

The coat of arms was officially granted to the city of Leeds in 1921 by the College of Arms. However, elements of the design, such as the fleece and the owls, have been associated with Leeds since the 17th century. The incorporation of these symbols into the coat of arms was a nod to the city's past and its economic foundations in the wool industry, as well as its aspirations towards education and justice.

Usage

The coat of arms is used in various official capacities to represent the city of Leeds. It appears on city council documents, public buildings, and other municipal properties. The emblem serves not only as a symbol of the city's authority but also as a visual representation of Leeds' identity and values.

See Also

• Heraldry
• Leeds
• West Yorkshire
• History of Leeds