College of Arms

14. Artwork and scrivening

The official records of the College of Arms and Letters Patent granting armorial bearings are still written and painted by hand by specialist scriveners and artists. Thus the College maintains an ancient English tradition of manuscript writing and illumination which can be traced back to the monastic scriptoria of the dark ages.

The full achievement of arms of Robert (Sidney), Viscount Lisle, painted in 1616

Under the supervision of the heralds, College artists prepare a wide variety of heraldic artwork, including: fine paintings on vellum for display; coloured working drawings for the guidance of craftsmen in other media; painted wooden shields; black and white line drawings for use by engravers on metal and glass; seal, flag, and bookplate designs.

There has long been a tradition of the Letters Patent granting arms having elaborate decorated borders, and if desired, modern grants of arms can be embellished with these.

The College artists can prepare other artwork such as illuminated addresses.

Next chapter: Naval, Military and R.A.F. insignia

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