FAQ

As folks ask questions, I’ll try to answer them here, if they seem of general interest.

How are the example armories for each charge chosen?

It depends on the charge.  If the charge is unique to Society heraldry, then the defining registration is one of the examples.  If it’s a documented period charge, then I look for registrations using that charge — ideally, as the only type of charge in the design.  Devices are preferred over badges; territorial arms get special consideration.  Since I have to limit the number of examples, if I have a choice, I’ll use the most period designs (in my own opinion).

Why isn’t [fill-in-the-blank] included in the Pictorial Dictionary?

Well, has it been registered?  By its definition, the Pictorial Dictionary focuses on charges which have been registered in the Society.  That said, there are a lot of charges not included, mostly animals:  it would be prohibitive to try to illustrate each and every beast that crawls and bird that flies.  I chose the animals with heraldic interest. And that said, if you think I’ve accidentally forgotten to include a charge, please tell me.  It may yet be added.

Do I have to draw my charge the same way it’s drawn in the Pictorial Dictionary?  Is that the only acceptable depiction?

Mmmmaybe, for a few rare (and almost always Society-specific) charges.  For the vast majority:  no, of course not!  There was tremendous variation in how charges were drawn in period:  compare the earliest depictions of lions with the late-period, for instance.  But on the other hand, I’ve done my best to assure that no one will be penalized by using the PicDic image:  they may not be the only permitted forms, or necessarily the best available, but they should always be acceptable.  (I will amend my drawings as new rulings are promulgated.)