Dutch Heraldry - Coats of Arms

Dutch Heraldry: A Historical Overview

Dutch heraldry focuses on the use of coats of arms and other insignia in the Netherlands. Unlike some elaborate heraldic traditions, Dutch heraldry maintains a simple and sober style, harking back to its medieval origins¹.

Historical Context

1. Significance in Medieval Times:

   • The Netherlands, along with the broader Low Countries, played a crucial role in the development of heraldry during the medieval period.
   • One notable armorial is the Gelre Armorial, compiled between 1370 and 1414, which provides insights into the coats of arms used in the region.

2. Unique Characteristics:

   • Unlike official heraldic systems in the United Kingdom, Dutch coats of arms were not restricted to noble families. Any individual could adopt a coat of arms, provided they didn’t infringe upon someone else’s design.
   • This tradition extended beyond nobility to include merchant families, resulting in what are known as burgher arms.
   • Burgher arms proliferated during the Dutch Republic (1581-1806) and influenced heraldry even in Dutch colonies like South Africa¹.

Terminology and Elements

• Tinctures:

  • Dutch heraldry uses specialized jargon similar to English. Here are some tinctures:
    • Goud (Gold/Or)
    • Zilver (Silver/Argent)
    • Azuur (Azure/Blue)
    • Keel (Gules/Red)
    • Sinopel (Vert/Green)
    • Purper (Purpure)
    • Sabel (Sable/Black)
    • Hermelijn (Ermine)
    • Vair

• Ordinaries:

  • These are basic geometric charges. Some examples:
    • Paal (Pale)
    • Dwarsbalk (Fess)
    • Schuinbalk (Bend)
    • Linker schuinbalk (Bend sinister)
    • Kruis (Cross)
    • Schuinkruis (Saltire)
    • Keper

Royal Heraldry

• The Dutch royal family has its own heraldic system:
  • The coat of arms of the Kingdom of the Netherlands combines elements from the former Dutch Republic and the House of Nassau.
  • It features a checkered shield with a lion holding a sword and a bundle of arrows—a symbol of both the monarch (currently King Willem-Alexander) and the country².

In summary, Dutch heraldry reflects a rich history, from medieval origins to the present day. Its simplicity and inclusivity make it a fascinating field of study, connecting individuals, families, and nations through their unique symbols¹². 🇳🇱🌟

!Dutch Coat of Arms