Did you know that most family names have their own coat of arms? Coats of arms, aka family crests, were found first in the 13th Century in the United Kingdom. There is no record of these being present at the Battle of Hastings in 1066, nor were they apparent by the beginning of the twelfth century.In the 13th Century however, coats of arms were common throughout Europe; helped no doubt by the Crusades. What has become known as ‘heraldry’ became firmly established.
Many reasons have been recommended for the origin of family crests. For example, some say arms appeared first on shields, whilst others put forward evidence that these were found first on banners or tabards. However, it is likely that once a design had been agreed upon, it was applied immediately on all personal items. Certainly the rules insist that arms should be capable of being displayed on a shield. The origin of the name though comes from a ‘surcoat’ a linen garment worn over the top of the suit of armor and reaching down to the waist. The term surcoat was adapted to coat of arms.
It was in battle that the need for armorial bearings arose. In times of warfare it was the nobility, the land-owners, who were called upon for leadership, and each landowner would control his small group of illiterate men in battle. With the helmet of a suit of armor closed in battle it would have been difficult to identify the man inside, hence the distinctive coat of arms or family crest pictured on a shield and embroidered surcoat became essential.
Not surprisingly, the granting of heraldic arms was to the elite: landowners and knights of the realm. The king, after all, exercised great power and even land changed hands by royal license. So to coats of arms which were granted by the king. However, before long what in this day and age we would describe as the ‘middle classes’ soon started to display family crests even though these were not sanctioned by the king. Heralds and other court officials toured the land trying to stamp out this unwelcome practice but it was to no avail. Coats of arms were here to stay and spreading to the masses.
Heraldry is becoming increasingly popular today with many families hanging prints and shields in their homes. The shields are smaller these days of course, but then today’s houses are a tad smaller than the banqueting halls in ancient castles. A few sad people would have you believe that you’ve no right to display your family crest, but any copyright will have expired centuries ago and, anyway, who is being harmed by the practice?
July 26, 2009
Use Your Coat Of Arms On A Print Or A Shield For Your Wall, Or Use It On Your Letterhead
Author: Advisor
Buying Gifts For Any Occasion
Author: Advisor
Wedding Gifts
For men, this could be the most crucial presents of your life, cause if you get wrong presents, the whole marriage is disintegrated! Therefore you need to get something special to give to your beloved, or a member of your kinfolk that is getting married. Wedding gifts in truth make the difference between a beautiful wedding and a very inadequate wedding, and the females really want the awesome wedding, so you need to get something awesome.
July 25, 2009
Fashion Shopping at Nom De Guerre
Author: Advisor
When shopping for clothes or shoes, you need to find out if quality is effectively combined with style. One of the fashion brands that provide an array of fashionable yet practical selections is Nom De Guerre. Even though established in New York, this clothing and accessories brand is already well-recognised in Britain. It effectively blends the essential and modern styles, for a look that’s unmistakably very special. You’ll be able to hunt for women’s jeans, men’s clothing, and excellent shoe varieties. For pregnant women, there are beautiful maternity dresses as well.
July 24, 2009
The All Encompassing Style of Surface to Air
Author: Advisor
Searching for the fashion brand that successfully incorporates quality and creativity might not be simple, but there are designer brands that offer the best of both worlds. Surface to Air is one brand which can be trusted to provide quality clothing and accessories at reasonable prices, and is currently available all over the world. Whether you are in search of clothing for men and women, or children’s wear, this label is well-known to satisfy the most perceptive tastes. Recognised globally and showcasing a contemporary style that is easy to notice, this brand is perfect for individuals who comprehend what fashion is all about.
July 23, 2009
Effortless Directions and Article for Paying For Rolex Watches
Author: Advisor
What is the popular watch you will opt if you have much penny? Perhaps you will go to opt Rolex watches. It does so since the Rolex watches have such a high-quality watch to have. That is why the price of the watch will be very pricey as well. Yet, price is not the biggest consideration if you can get such a wonderful watch.
Therefore, Rolex watches can command a price equally with the quality that they represent. Since they are very high-quality, there is a long waiting list to have one of these watches. It means that you would require waiting for two years before your name acquires to the top of the waiting list.