Understanding Blazonry: The Art of Describing Coats of Arms

Blazoning is a heraldic term that refers to the process of describing or depicting a coat of arms or other heraldic device in detail. This can include the colors, shapes, and symbols used on the shield, as well as any mottoes or other elements that are part of the design. The purpose of blazoning is to provide a clear and precise description of a coat of arms so that it can be accurately reproduced and recognized.
Blazoning is typically done using a specific language and format, which includes a series of keywords and phrases that are used to describe the various elements of the coat of arms. For example, the shield might be described as "per pale gules and azure," which means that it is divided into two parts, with the left side being red (gules) and the right side being blue (azure). Other elements, such as the crest or motto, might be described separately using their own specific keywords and phrases.
Blazoning has a long history and was originally used by heralds to describe coats of arms in formal settings, such as on official documents and in heraldic records. Today, blazoning is still used by heraldic authorities and enthusiasts to accurately describe and identify coats of arms, as well as to create new coats of arms for individuals and organizations.