Cradle (Accepted)
A cradle is a small bed or cot on rockers, for lulling an infant to sleep. Though a period artifact, it does not seem to have been used as an heraldic charge. The cradle took many forms in period; the illustration is based on an illumination in the Hours of Catherine of Cleves, c.1440 [fo.52]. The cradle’s default orientation in Society armory is in profile (or slight trian aspect), with the “head-pillow” end to dexter.
Period armory gives us examples of the “bassinet”, a broad shallow wicker basket for bedding infants. The bassinet is shown containing a swaddled infant, as in the crest of the Earls of Derby, mid-15th C. [HCE xxvii]. See also Roman dining couch.
Gloria Kirkhouse of Tain bears: Gules, on a cradle Or two towers sable, all within a bordure Or.
Abigail of Lorraine bears: Azure, a cradle within an orle of thimbles Or.
Eẃa of Coppertree bears: Vert, a bassinet containing a baby swaddled Or, a ford proper.