What does a wolf on a shield mean?
Though commonly reviled as a livestock predator and man-eater, the wolf was also considered a noble and courageous animal, and frequently appeared on the arms and crests of numerous noble families. It typically symbolised the rewards of perseverance in long sieges or hard industry.
What is a shield in heraldry?
In heraldry, an escutcheon (/ɪˈskʌtʃən/) is a shield that forms the main or focal element in an achievement of arms. The word is used in two related senses. First, as the shield on which a coat of arms is displayed; second, a shield can itself be a charge within a coat of arms.
What do wolves symbolize in Europe?
In western Europe, wolves were not seen as positively. In both German and Norse mythology, wolf was a symbol of destruction and death. Vikings saw wolf as a representation of Fenris (their Chaos), who would bite through his chains and consume the sun at the end of time.
What is heraldry used for?
heraldry, the science and the art that deal with the use, display, and regulation of hereditary symbols employed to distinguish individuals, armies, institutions, and corporations. Those symbols, which originated as identification devices on flags and shields, are called armorial bearings.
What do the colors mean in heraldry?
Silver / White – Argent: Signifies truth, sincerity, peace, innocence and purity. Blue – Azure: Signifies loyalty, chastity, truth, strength and faith. Red – Gules: Signifies magnanimity, military strength, warrior and martyr. Purple – Purpure: Signifies temperance, regal, justice, royal majesty, and sovereignty.
Should we use heraldry today?
In fact, purists believe that most logos or emblems are simply a hybrid of ancient heraldic seals or emblazons. The world of law is steeped in the tradition of heraldry. Today, most legal documents still require you to affix a red seal. In short, heraldry is very much a part of our lives today.
When was heraldry used?
Heraldic tradition fully developed in the 13th century, and it flourished and developed further during the Late Middle Ages and the Early Modern period. Originally limited to nobility, heraldry is adopted by wealthy commoners in the Late Middle Ages (Burgher arms).
What is the history of the Wolf in heraldry?
Wolves in heraldry. The wolf has been widely used in many forms in heraldry during the Middle Ages. Though commonly reviled as a livestock predator and man-eater, the wolf was also considered a noble and courageous animal, and frequently appeared on the Arms and crests of numerous noble families.
Why is there a wolf on the German coat of arms?
The use of the wolf is quite common in German heraldry. The Arms of Passau in Bavaria show a red wolf rampant on a white shield. These arms have been used by the town since the early 15th century and may have originally belonged to the Bishop of Passau, who depicted a wolf as part of his arms.
What town has a red wolf on its coat of arms?
The Arms of Passau in Bavaria show a red wolf rampant on a white shield. These arms have been used by the town since the early 15th century and may have originally belonged to the Bishop of Passau, who depicted a wolf as part of his arms.
Who has a wolf on their coat of arms in Scotland?
In Scottish heraldry the most prominent use of the wolf occurs with the Arms of Struan Robertson and with all other members of Clan Robertson who can claim descent from or- a relationship to the House of Struan. As one author says: