COAT OF ARMS

Background

Background During the Middle Ages knights painted their

armor and shields as a way of identifying themselves on the battle field.  Out of this practice arose heraldry, a tradition composed of a complex system of symbolism which included shapes, colors, animals, weapons and other objects.  Eventually, this practice has evolved into the elaborate family crests and mottos of today.

 

Heraldic colors

Yellow or Gold - GenerosityWhite or Silver - Peace & SincerityBlack – Mystery, Constancy, evilBlue - Loyalty & TruthfulnessRed - Military Fortitude, WarriorGreen - Hope, Joy, youth, joined to the landPurple – RoyaltyOrange – Worthwhile AmbitionMaroon – Victorious, Patient in Battle

Heraldic Animals

Bear - ProtectivenessBee - IndustriousnessCamel - PerseveranceDog - LoyaltyDouble Eagle & Eagle - Leadership & DecisivenessDragon - Defender of TreasureFalcon or Hawk - EagernessFox - ClevernessGriffin (part eagle, part lion) - BraveryHorse - Readiness to Serve

Heraldic Animals

Lion - CouragePelican - Generosity & DevotionRaven - ConstancySnake – AmbitionEagle - intelligenceStag, Elk or Deer - Peace & HarmonyTiger - Fierceness & ValorUnicorn - Extreme courageWolf - Constant Vigilance

Heraldic symbols

Axe - DutifulBridge - (signifies a governor or magistrate)Crescent - EnlightenmentCrosses - Christian sentimentsCrown - AuthorityFire - ZealFlaming Heart - PassionFleur-de-lys (stylized Iris flower) - Purity (associated with France)Hand - Faith, Sincerity & JusticeHeart - Sincerity

Heraldic Symbols

Horns & Antlers - FortitudeLightning - DecisivenessMoon - SerenityOyster Shell - TravelerRing - FidelityScepter - JusticeStar - NobilitySun - GlorySword - WarlikeTower or Castle - Fortitude & Protectiveness

Other important design details

Besides simple fields of color, a coat of arms may contain other design motifs, such as checkerboards, polka dots, or fur patterns. One traditional design rule is that two solid-color fields shouldn't appear side by side unless one of the two is "metallic". Even this "rule" has been broken by many famous and historical coats of arms. 

Coat of Arms Project You must create your own coat of arms

on an 8 1/2” x 11” sheet of paper. It must contain the following: 4 Sections

1. Charge or figure that represents your inner qualities or values

2. Draw something that reflects your family background.

3. Draw something that represents a skill that you are proud to possess.

4. School symbol that represents Legacy Personal slogan or motto you live by.

My sample

Coat of Arms Project

On the back side of the paper, you must include your name and a well-developed paragraph explaining your coat of arms.

Due Date : Friday, February 28th

Assignment today…

Choose shape of shield I will provide you with 1 piece of white paper to

trace your shield. Use the stencil to trace your shield.

Do not keep my stencils Do not cut out your shields

If you mess up or decide to change your shield, you will need to provide your own paper.

Write down ideas of what colors, symbols, and animals you would like to use. All colors, symbols, and animals must describe

you as a person.