The Petitioner’s father came from Bari in Italy and the red and white background to his Shield reflects the colours of the Arms of the town. The 3 fleurs – de – lys represent the 3 citizenships he possesses. Apart from Italy, the two others are America and Australia.
This Achievement does not have a Crest. Most Petitioners request a Crest, but it is by no means unusual not to have one. My Coat of Arms doesn’t have a crest.
Motto: a word or more upon a scroll
which in Scotland is usually shown above the crest. Sometimes, in Scotland, a Coat of Arms will show a Motto both above and below the Shield.
Wreath: a twisted band composed of the two principal colours shown on the Shield. This band holds the Mantle securely onto the top of the Helm.
Mantle: a covering that flows from the Helmet. This covering was used by Crusaders journeying to hot climates to shade their armour from the sun. In battle, it inevitably became torn. Over the Centuries, artists have been very keen to use these torn edges in order to create ornate designs.
Helmet: the covering for protection of the head.
Shield: a device for protection bearing ornamentation for identification. The Shield is the principal element in a Coat of Arms.
