Supporter

What Are Heraldic Supporters?

In heraldry, supporters are figures or objects placed on either side of the shield, usually holding it up. Think of them as the strong arms that keep your coat of arms from toppling over. Historically, their use was left to individual choice, but modern restrictions have been implemented in certain countries, such as the UK.

The Evolution of Supporters

Early forms of supporters can be found in medieval seals, but they became part of the heraldic achievement towards the end of the 15th century. The figures used as supporters may be based on real or imaginary animals, human figures, plants, or other objects, and often have local significance or historical links.

Supporters in Heraldry

There is usually one supporter on each side of the shield, but some examples feature single supporters behind the shield or three or four supporters in rare cases. The context of support application can vary, with entitlement often tied to grant of honor or admission into orders of chivalry.

The Diverse World of Supporters

Animal supporters are depicted as close to rampant as possible, while human supporters may be allegorical figures or specifically named individuals. Regional development and entitlement for the use of supporters vary, including in Australia, Canada, France, and other countries.

Special Cases and Rules

In some cases, supporters may only be used on arms granted by specific heraldic authorities, but others may choose to adopt them without limit. Human supporters are called tenants, while animal supporters are referred to as supports. Trees and other inanimate objects sometimes used are called Soutiens.

Notable Examples

Knights Grand Companion and Principal Companions of New Zealand Order of Merit use heraldic supporters. In Spain, the terms tenantes (for human figures), soportes (for beasts), and sosténes (for anything else) are used. There is no governing rule on their use.

Unique Rules in Spain

The only accepted rule in Spain is that female and ecclesiastical arms should not have supporters, except for angels or arms of saints and monasteries.

In the UK: A Special Favor

In the UK, supporters are typically granted as a special royal favour and limited to hereditary peers, members of the Royal Family, certain chiefs of Scottish clans, and life peers who hold specific orders and titles. This makes them a rare and prestigious addition to one’s coat of arms.

So, the next time you see a coat of arms with those strong and supportive figures on either side, remember that they are not just decorative elements but symbols of honor, tradition, and sometimes even royalty. They stand as silent sentinels, guarding the legacy and stories behind each shield.