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Module 2.2: Understanding Blazoning

What is Blazoning?

Definition and Purpose of Blazoning in Heraldry

Blazoning is the formal language used to describe a coat of arms. This specialized language ensures that a coat of arms can be accurately recreated from the description. The purpose of blazoning is to provide a standardized method of describing the elements and arrangement of a coat of arms, ensuring consistency and clarity in heraldic records.

Why Blazoning Matters

Blazoning allows heralds to accurately record and reproduce coats of arms. It ensures that each design is unique and can be recognized by others familiar with heraldry.

IMAGE HERE: A coat of arms with a detailed blazon description.

Historical Context and Development of the Blazoning System

The system of blazoning developed in the 12th century alongside the rise of heraldry. It evolved to accommodate the growing complexity of heraldic designs and to standardize the way these designs were described and recorded. Over time, the language of blazoning became more formalized, incorporating specific rules and conventions that are still used today.

IMAGE HERE: An illustration of a medieval herald writing a blazon.

Structure of a Blazon

Order of Description: Field, Charges, and Their Positions

A blazon follows a specific order to describe the elements of a coat of arms:

  1. Field: The background color or pattern of the shield.
  2. Primary Charges: The main symbols or figures placed on the field.
  3. Secondary Charges: Additional symbols or figures that accompany the primary charges.
  4. Positions and Arrangements: The location and arrangement of charges on the shield.

Example of Blazon Structure

Azure, a lion rampant Or, in chief three mullets Argent.

IMAGE HERE: A coat of arms matching the example blazon description.

Language and Syntax Used in Blazoning

Blazoning uses a specific language and syntax to describe coats of arms. Key elements include:

  • Tinctures: Colors, metals, and furs used in the design.
  • Charges: Symbols and figures placed on the field.
  • Positions: Terms like "in chief" (top), "in base" (bottom), "dexter" (right), and "sinister" (left) to describe locations on the shield.
  • Arrangement: Descriptive terms for how charges are arranged, such as "rampant" (rearing) for animals.

IMAGE HERE: A diagram showing the syntax of a blazon with explanations for each part.

Rules and Conventions

Rules for Describing Tinctures, Ordinaries, and Charges

Blazoning follows strict rules to ensure clarity and consistency:

  • Tinctures: Always described first, with metals (Or, Argent) before colors (Gules, Azure, etc.).
  • Ordinaries: Basic geometric shapes are described next, specifying their position on the field.
  • Charges: Detailed descriptions of symbols and figures, including their position and arrangement.

Common Mistakes in Blazoning

Avoid placing color on color or metal on metal, as this violates the rule of tincture.

IMAGE HERE: Examples of correct and incorrect blazon descriptions based on tincture rules.

Common Abbreviations and Terms Used in Blazoning

Blazoning often uses abbreviations and specific terms to keep descriptions concise:

  • Arg.: Argent (silver)
  • Or: Or (gold)
  • Gules: Red
  • Azure: Blue
  • Vert: Green
  • Purpure: Purple
  • Sable: Black
  • In chief: At the top of the shield
  • In base: At the bottom of the shield
  • Dexter: Right side of the shield (from the bearer's perspective)
  • Sinister: Left side of the shield (from the bearer's perspective)

IMAGE HERE: A glossary of common abbreviations and terms used in blazoning with examples.

MULTIMEDIA HERE: Video tutorial on how to write a blazon, including step-by-step examples and explanations.