The Art of Parcel-Gilt Heraldry: A Visual Guide to the History and Significance of Coats of Arms

Parcel-gilt is a term used in the context of heraldry and refers to a coat of arms or other heraldic device that is divided into multiple parts or "parcels" and decorated with different types of ornaments or "gilts". The result is a complex and visually striking design that showcases the owner's wealth, status, and lineage.

In heraldry, each parcel is typically a different color or metal, and may feature different symbols or charges, such as animals, mythical creatures, or abstract shapes. The gilts, on the other hand, are the strips of fabric or other materials that are used to decorate the edges of the shield or other heraldic device. They can be made of various materials, such as velvet, satin, or embroidered thread, and may feature intricate patterns or designs.

Parcel-gilt coats of arms were particularly popular in the Middle Ages and Renaissance, when heraldry was at its peak, and were often used by wealthy and powerful families to showcase their status and lineage. Today, parcel-gilt coats of arms continue to be used by some families and organizations as a way to honor their heritage and history.