Heraldry - A Brief Guide The object of heraldry is primarily to
distinguish a person by means of clearly recognisable symbols.
Originally it fulfilled this function in both war and peace. In
the military system founded by William the Conqueror, and
continued throughout the Middle Ages, based on feudal tenure, it
was essential that every leader should be clearly recognisable
by his retainers. As steel armour developed, some outward symbol
of his identity became indispensable. It was also necessary that
this should be easily distinguished at a distance. Hence the
necessity arose for the heraldic convention that colour must not
be placed on colour, nor metal on metal. Seals also carried the
heraldic insignia. In times of peace, apart from its use in the
tournaments then so commonly held, early heraldry was invaluable
to identify the signatory to a deed or document. It was no doubt
simpler in those days to affix your seal to a document than to
sign it. The earliest arms were, as might be expected, simple
coats an