A zule is a stylized representation of a column or support.  Its original function is unclear:  some scholars believe it to represent a balustrade pillar, while others consider it a table trellis.  The charge was originally from Dutch armory (Dutch zuil, “column”); it was introduced to England during the reign of William of Orange, where it was confused with the chess rook.  Many texts thus give “zule” as a synonym for “chess rook”; but the two are actually distinct charges.

The illustration is taken from the canting arms of van Zuylen, c.1370 [Gelre 88v].

The Orde van de Zuil, of the Barony of Red Spears, bears:  Per pale purpure and argent, a zule counterchanged.

Jorgen Gruuendale bears:  Per pale Or and gules, a zule counterchanged.

Lemoine de Gascony bears as a badge:  A zule sable.