|
Decorating helmets and crests is an ancient idea that
medieval heraldists adopted from the very start. |
A crest can be used without
the helm. |
The ornamental drapery that flows from the crest, called
mantling, originated from the cloth covering the back of the neck.
The wreath is the rolled top of the mantle used to hold
it in place. It is shown in the two main tinctures of the shield - "wreath
of the colour". |
