Closed birdcage (Period)

A birdcage is a small enclosure made of wire bars, in which birds are kept.  It’s found in the arms of Walther von der Vogelweide, c.1300 [Manesse].  The blazon should specify whether the birdcage’s door is open or closed; but it must have a bird, as it’s otherwise not possible to tell it’s a birdcage.  The illustration shows a closed birdcage with its bird.  See also nest.

Aislynn de Darkenhall bears:  Azure, within an open birdcage Or a dove reguardant argent, a bordure engrailed argent semy of roses proper.