Skull (heraldry)
The skull in heraldry is also called the skull . His representation can be in the shield as a common figure or above the coat of arms in the coat of arms as a helmet ornament .
The head is often covered with many objects. Why this figure is included in the coat of arms cannot be clearly answered. It was mainly used in humanistic and pietistic coats of arms and seal motifs. The aversion to the helmet over the coat of arms as a knightly attribute led to helmetless coats of arms and was replaced by the skull or other allegories. The hourglass is sometimes shown together with the heraldic figure as a symbol of transience . The two large leg bones are often conspicuous, they are also described as bones, placed in the shape of a St. Andrew's cross , which can be placed under, behind or over the skull. The sole representation of crossbones in the coat of arms also occurs. Silver / white is predominantly chosen for the color representation . The skull can be wreathed, or many snakes surround the skull.
literature
Walter Leonhard : The great book of heraldic art. Development, elements, motifs, design. License issue. Bechtermünz, Augsburg 2001, ISBN 3-8289-0768-7 .
Web links
Individual proof
- ^ Walter Leonhard: The great book of heraldic art. Development, elements, motifs, design. License issue. Bechtermünz, Augsburg 2001, ISBN 3-8289-0768-7 .