Heraldry - Common Charges
A charge is any emblem or device that is placed on a shield or coat of arms. It's essentially one of the key design elements used to decorate the field (the background) of the shield. Charges are a major part of what makes each coat of arms unique, and their placement, number, color (called tincture), and style are all carefully regulated by heraldic tradition.
Common Charges
The annulet
A simple ring. Indicates a fifth son.
Crescent
Honor and hope. Also a cadency mark used to indicate the second son in a family.
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis shape is based on the lily plant and comes in many forms. Indicates a sixth son.
Mullet
Honour and achievement. Nobility and divine quality. Guidance or protection.
Fusil
Industry and labour. Persistence and endurance.
Escutcheon
When a shield is borne as a charge. Usually the arms of an heiress on her husband's shield.
Roundels
Roundels
At its core, the roundel symbolizes eternity, unity, and perfection—much like a circle does in many traditions. It can also represent coins or wealth in some contexts.Roundels come in different colours and each one has a different name.
Bezant (Or)
Named after Byzantine coins (bezants), it represents wealth, generosity, or crusader heritage.
Plate (Argent)
Symbolizes truth and sincerity.
Torteau (Gules)
Often linked to military strength or martyrdom.
Hurt (Azure)
Suggests loyalty and truth.
Pomeis (Vert)
Associated with hope, joy, or fertility.
Pellet (Sable)
Can signify constancy or grief.
Golpe (Purpure)
A rarer charge, sometimes linked to sovereignty or justice.
Orange (Tenne)
Quite rare and usually indicates ambition or worthy aspiration.
Fountain
Often a spring, well, or source of life. Purity, cleansing, and renewal.
Glossary
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Medieval Castles
Types of castles
- Early Fortifications
- Castles of William the Conqueror
- Earthwork castles
- Motte and bailey castles
- Castles of Edward I
- Concentric castles
Types of keep
Other details
