ARGENT, in heraldry, signifies the color white, used in the coats of gentlemen, knights, and baronets. See COLOR and WHITE. Barons and all nobles have the white color called Pearl; and sovereign princes have theirs called Luna. Without either this or Or, the heralds say there can be no good armory. See OR.
Argent is expressed in engraving by the parts being left plain, without any strokes from the graver. The word is French, derived from the Latin argentum, silver; this color being supposed the representation of that metal:Whence the Spaniards call this field Campo de Plata (Silver Field).
Argent is expressed in engraving by the parts being left plain, without any strokes from the graver. The word is French, derived from the Latin argentum, silver; this color being supposed the representation of that metal:Whence the Spaniards call this field Campo de Plata (Silver Field).
ARMEN, in Heraldry, is used in respect of Beasts and Birds of Prey, when their Teeth, Horns, Feet, Beak, Talons, or Tusks, are of a different Colour from the rest—He bears a Cock, or a Falcon, armed, Or, etc.
ASSUMPTIVE Arms, in Heraldry, are such as a Man has a right to assume of himself, in virtue of some Action. See ARMS.
As, if a Man who is no Gentleman of Blood, nor Coat Armour, takes a Gentleman, Lord, or Prince, Prisoner in any lawful War; he becomes entitled to bear the Shield of such Prisoner, and enjoy it to him and his Heirs.—The Foundation hereof is that Principle in Military Law, that the Dominion of Things taken in lawful War passes to the Conqueror.
As, if a Man who is no Gentleman of Blood, nor Coat Armour, takes a Gentleman, Lord, or Prince, Prisoner in any lawful War; he becomes entitled to bear the Shield of such Prisoner, and enjoy it to him and his Heirs.—The Foundation hereof is that Principle in Military Law, that the Dominion of Things taken in lawful War passes to the Conqueror.
ATCHIEVEMENT, in Heraldry, the Coat of Arms of any Person or Family; duly marshalled with its external ornaments, as Supporters, Helmet, Wreath, Crest, and Motto. See COAT and ARMS. See also SUPPORTER, HELMET, etc.
Such are usually hung out on the Fronts of Houses after the Death of some considerable Person; and are now corruptly called Hatchments.
The Word is formed from the French, 'Achevement', meaning finishing, Consummation, Perfection.
Such are usually hung out on the Fronts of Houses after the Death of some considerable Person; and are now corruptly called Hatchments.
The Word is formed from the French, 'Achevement', meaning finishing, Consummation, Perfection.