Rathbone genealogy

ORIGIN ANO MEANING OF THE
FIGURES AND SYMBOLS
Used in Heraldic Emblazonment.
The Shield proper is the object upon which the arms are
unplaced. It may be of any form, with the exception
that the lozenge or diamond shape is the only form
which ladies can use, and it is reserved for thera.
The Crest is a common adjunct to the shield, and consists
of an object or objects placed above it.
The Wreath or Torse, made of twisted ribbons of the two
principal colors of the arms, and upon which the crest
rests.
The Helmet, a well-known object, which is placed between
the shield and the crest, and resting upon the former.
Many different forms are used, but theone most in use is
that of an Esquire in profile of steel, with the visor
closed and turned to the right side of the shield.
The Mantlings or Lambrequins, a small mantle attached to
the helmet, generally represented of crimson velvet or
silk, lined with ermine, more frequently of the colors of
the arms, and is often cut or torn giving the whole an
irregular form.
The Motto or "Cride Guirre," is a word or sentence upon
a scroll, generally placed below the shield.
The Fesse indicated the belt of a Knight.
The Bazants, a kind of money used in the East, indicates
that some ancestor of the family went on a crusade to
the Holy Land, was captured and ransomed.
The Lion is used in the arms as an emblem of courage,
strength and magnanimity.
Azure means blue and is an emblem of truth and constancy.
Gules means red, and is an emblem of bravery.
Argent is silver, and is an emblem of unscuiled honor.
Ppr is of the usual or national color.