Escutcheon

An escutcheon is a term used in heraldry to refer to a shield or shield-shaped emblem bearing a coat of arms. The escutcheon forms the main or focal element in an achievement of arms, which is a full display of all the heraldic components to which the bearer of a coat of arms is entitled.

Components of an Escutcheon

The escutcheon is typically divided into several sections, each of which can contain different heraldic charges or symbols. The main parts of an escutcheon include:

• Field: The background of the shield, which can be a single color (tincture) or divided into multiple sections.
• Ordinaries: Basic geometric shapes that are placed on the field, such as the pale, fess, bend, chevron, and cross.
• Charges: Symbols or images placed on the field or ordinaries, such as animals, plants, objects, or mythical creatures.

Types of Escutcheons

Escutcheons can vary in shape and style depending on the region and time period. Some common types include:

• Heater Shield: A classic medieval shield shape, resembling the bottom of a flat iron.
• Lozenge: A diamond-shaped escutcheon, often used to display the arms of a woman.
• Cartouche: An oval or elliptical shield, sometimes used in ecclesiastical heraldry.

Uses of Escutcheons

Escutcheons are used in various contexts, including:

• Family Coats of Arms: Representing the lineage and heritage of a family.
• Institutional Heraldry: Used by organizations, such as universities, military units, and governmental bodies.
• Ecclesiastical Heraldry: Employed by churches and religious institutions to symbolize their authority and heritage.

Related Heraldic Elements

In addition to the escutcheon, an achievement of arms may include other elements such as:

• Crest: A figure or device placed above the shield.
• Helmet: Positioned above the shield and below the crest.
• Mantling: Decorative drapery tied to the helmet.
• Supporters: Figures or animals placed on either side of the shield.
• Motto: A phrase or slogan associated with the arms.

See Also

• Heraldry
• Coat of arms
• Achievement of arms
• Tincture (heraldry)
• Ordinary (heraldry)
• Charge (heraldry)