Heraldry - M
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Glossary

Medieval Heraldry A to Z - M

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Designs, or coat of arms, were invented to help recognise one person from another. How far back this idea was first put into practice is not known but from the first half of the twelfth century (1100-1150) knights began to use designs on their flags and shields to identify themselves in battle and in tournaments. The designs commonly passed down from one generation to the next and became means of identifying an entire family and not just a single person. The term 'coat of arms' comes the the surcoat, a textile garment, that was worn over the armour and was decorated with the same design as the shield.

Martlet

The martlet is used to signify the fourth son of the family. The martlet is a bird without legs that is supposed to spend its whole life in the air. It may be based on the swift that does spend much of its life in the air.

Mascle

The Mascle is a lozenge with a hole in the centre.

Mitre

The Mitre...

Mullet

When the number of points is not specified, the standard mullet normally has five. Derived from the shape of a knight's spur and being related to the knight may represent noble service. The mullet is also used to distinguish the third son from the head of the family. See cadency for more information.

Mullet of 4

The number of points of a mullet can be specified. In the example it has four points.

Mullet of 6

This is a mullet with size points.

Mullet of 6 Pierced

This six-pointed mullet is pierced with a hole.

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