Heraldic Coat of Arms Curtain

Heraldry came into existence in the early 12th Century when knights started wearing armour. In the case of full battle armour identification of knights was difficult. Therefore, devices started to be put onto the knight’s shield & surcoats. Hence the description `coat of arms' which is derived from the use on surcoats. It became custom for these devises to be passed from father to son. Kings ordered records to be kept of the coats of arms, to control their use and eliminate duplication. Heralds use a mixture of English & old French to blazon (describe) a coat of arms. Fabulous mythical beasts were often used in the designs, gryphon, dragon, wyvern & opinicus. Only nobility were permitted to take part, this kept the heralds busy checking the credentials of the combatants.

Woven Tapestry Door Curtain. Fully lined - fitted with seven hanging loops.

• Measures: L200cm X W135cm.