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Pale (heraldry)
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In heraldry and vexillology, a pale is a charge consisting of a band running vertically down the centre of a shield or flag.[1] Writers broadly agree that the width of the pale ranges from about one-fifth to about one-third of the width of the shield, but this width is not fixed. A narrow pale is more likely if it is uncharged, that is, if it does not have other objects placed on it. If charged, the pale is typically wider to allow room for the objects depicted there.[1]
The pale is one of the ordinaries in heraldry, along with the bend, chevron, fess, and chief. There are several other ordinaries and sub-ordinaries.[1]
The word pale originally referred to a picket (a piece of wood much taller than it is wide such as is used to build a picket fence) and it is from the resemblance to this that the heraldic pale derives its name[2] (see 'pale', English: Etymology 2 on Wiktionary).
Derived terms
[edit]- pallet
- In British heraldry when two or more pales appear on a field, they are conventionally termed pallets. While a pallet is generally classified as a diminutive of the pale, the pallets on a shield of two pallets may be no narrower than the pale on another where it has been narrowed to accommodate other charges on either side.[1][3]
- paly
- A shield with numerous pales may be termed paly, especially in early heraldry, though this term is now properly reserved to describe a variation of the field.[1][3]
- in pale
- In pale refers to the appearance of several items on the shield being lined up in the direction of a pale.[3]
- palewise
- A charge palewise is vertical like a pale.[3]
- party per pale
- A shield party per pale is divided into two parts by a single line which runs in the direction of a pale.[3]
Special cases
[edit]A pale may be couped ("cut off" at either end, and so not reaching the top or bottom of the shield).[3] The special term in Canadian heraldry for a couped pale is "a pale retrait" (this also applies to pallets; see below). If couped at the bottom it is blazoned as "a pale retrait in base".[4]
The Canadian pale, invented by George Stanley for the flag of Canada, occupies fully half the field. On a 1:2 flag such as Canada's, it is square. The name was suggested by Sir Conrad Swan, and used when Elizabeth II proclaimed the new flag on 28 January 1965.[5]
References
[edit]- ^ a b c d e Fox-Davies, Arthur Charles (1904). The Art of Heraldry: An Encyclopedia of Armory. London: T.C. & E.C. Jack – via Internet Archive.
- ^ Webster, Noah; Walkers, John; Goodrich, Chauncey A. (1853). "Pale". An American Dictionary of the English Language. New York: Harper & brothers. p. 710.
- ^ a b c d e f Gough, Henry; Parker, James (1894). A Glossary of Terms Used in Heraldry (New ed.). Oxford and London: J. Parker and Co. p. 112.
- ^ "Canadian Heraldic Dictionary". www.heraldry.ca. Retrieved 31 December 2023.
- ^ Kibbe, Stephen, ed. (September 2006). "Did you know...?" (PDF). The Seaxe (PDF) (52). Middlesex Heraldry Society: 12. This in turn credits A King in Canada, by Conrad Swan, pp. 242–247.
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Pale (heraldry)
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Definition and Origins
Definition
In heraldry, a pale is defined as a vertical band positioned at the center of a shield or flag, extending fully from the top to the bottom edge.[1] This central placement creates a symmetrical division of the field, forming a single, upright stripe that distinguishes it from other geometric charges.[8] The pale is classified as one of the principal or honourable ordinaries in heraldic design, alongside the bend, chevron, fess, and chief.[9] These ordinaries represent fundamental geometric elements that form the basis of many coats of arms, with the pale symbolizing a core structural feature due to its prominent central orientation.[2] Typically, the pale occupies a width ranging from one-fifth to one-third of the shield's total width, though this proportion is adjusted for visual balance and is not rigidly fixed.[1] When the pale is charged with additional heraldic elements, such as smaller figures or devices, its width is often increased slightly to ensure adequate space and maintain aesthetic harmony.[8]Etymology
The term "pale" in heraldry derives from the Old French "pal," meaning a stake or picket, which itself originates from the Latin "palus," denoting a pointed wooden stake used in fencing or palisades.[10] This linguistic root evokes the image of a vertical post, reflecting the pale's form as a central upright band on a shield.[11] Heraldry emerged in the mid-12th century CE amid the need for identifiable emblems in battle, with ordinaries like the pale adopted during this period to denote simple vertical divisions, drawing directly from the French terminology prevalent in early armorial practices.[12] By the 13th century, as heraldry formalized across Europe, the term "pal" was integrated into blazonry to describe this element, symbolizing defensive strength akin to a wooden barrier.[12] In English heraldry, the term evolved and became standardized by the 14th century, borrowed directly from Old French and Latin sources, allowing distinction from other vertical charges such as the narrower pallet or endorses.[13] This adoption aligned with the broader development of English heraldic vocabulary, separating the pale as a primary ordinary from more complex or diminutive features.[11]Characteristics and Rules
Dimensions and Placement
In heraldry, the pale is precisely placed at the center of the shield, forming a vertical band that extends fully from the chief at the top to the base at the bottom.[14] This central positioning ensures symmetry and prominence as one of the principal ordinaries.[15] The width of the pale follows established guidelines that allow for flexibility based on context, typically occupying about one-third of the shield's overall width to balance visual impact.[15] For uncharged pales, the band is often drawn narrower, around one-fifth of the shield's width, to avoid overwhelming the field.[1] When the pale bears charges, its width may increase to one-third or more to provide sufficient space for visibility and proper depiction of those elements.[16] Blazoning conventions for the pale are straightforward and emphasize its inherent symmetry; it is typically described simply as "a pale" followed by its tincture, without needing terms like "dexter" or "sinister" since its central alignment is assumed.[17] The pale's proportions are calibrated to the shield's geometry, ensuring it integrates harmoniously; in standard escutcheons, it aligns with the vertical axis for even division.[14] For non-standard shapes like the lozenge, used in feminine heraldry, the pale is adjusted to run vertically from the upper to the lower point while preserving its central position and relative width.[18]Charges and Tinctures
In heraldry, charges placed upon a pale are typically centered along its vertical axis to maintain symmetry and visual balance, with their dimensions scaled proportionally to fit within the pale's narrow width—usually one-third of the shield—without extending beyond its edges.[19] This placement ensures the charges do not encroach upon the surrounding field, treating the pale as a self-contained diminished field for emblazonment purposes.[14] When multiple charges appear on a pale, they are arranged vertically in a line known as "in pale," proceeding from the chief (top) to the base (bottom) of the shield, allowing for orderly stacking without overlap.[19] Standard width adjustments may occasionally accommodate larger or more elaborate charges, though such modifications remain subordinate to the pale's traditional proportions.[14] The application of tinctures to a pale and its charges adheres strictly to the rule of tincture, which prohibits placing a metal (or or argent) upon another metal or a color (such as gules, azure, vert, or purpure) upon another color, thereby ensuring sufficient contrast for identifiability at a distance.[20] The pale's own tincture must contrast with that of the underlying field to delineate it clearly, while any charges upon the pale must likewise contrast with the pale itself; exceptions are permitted for furs, charges in their proper (natural) colors, or semé patterns, but these are applied judiciously to preserve heraldic clarity.[14] For instance, a pale argent (silver) on a field gules (red) might bear charges gules to maintain the required differentiation.[19] Common charges borne on a pale include lions, fleurs-de-lis, and crosses, which may appear singly or in groups to convey lineage or symbolism. A single lion passant, for example, might occupy the center of the pale, while three fleurs-de-lis could be arranged vertically in pale for a more elaborate design.[19] In blazoning, a charged pale is described as "a pale [tincture] charged with [charges]," which underscores its role as a foundational ordinary serving as a sub-field for the overlying elements.[19] This phrasing prioritizes the pale's tincture before detailing the charges' orientation and tincture, as in Per pale argent and gules, a pale sable charged with three mullets argent, where the mullets are explicitly contrasted against the sable pale.[19] Such conventions facilitate precise reproduction in armorial bearings while highlighting the pale's structural prominence.[14]Variations and Related Terms
Derived Terms
The pale, as the foundational vertical ordinary in heraldry, gives rise to several derived terms that adapt its vertical orientation for divisions, arrangements, or modifications of the shield.[14] Pallet. A pallet represents a narrower version of the pale, measuring typically half its width, and serves as a subsidiary division rather than a primary ordinary.[14] It is commonly employed in multiples, such as two or three pallets, and may be placed upon other ordinaries like the chief or chevron, though it appears singly only as a mark of cadency and is often depicted wavy.[14] Endorse. An endorse is a very narrow diminutive of the pale, typically about one-quarter the width of a standard pale, and usually appears in pairs flanking a central pale.[21] Paly. The term paly describes a field divided into an even number of vertical stripes of equal width, usually four or more, which extends the pale's concept into a repeated pattern of alternating tinctures rather than isolated bands.[14] Unlike multiple pales, paly constitutes a field division that requires specification of the exact number of pieces in the blazon, such as "paly of six."[14] In pale. In pale refers to the arrangement of multiple charges aligned vertically, one above the other, in a manner that echoes the pale's central orientation without forming an actual band.[14] This positioning ensures the charges follow a perpendicular line down the shield, distinguishing it from other linear arrangements like in fess or in bend.[14] Palewise. Palewise indicates the vertical orientation of a single charge, positioned or turned as if aligned along the direction of a pale, emphasizing its upright posture irrespective of exact placement on the field.[14] This term applies to the charge's disposition rather than creating a division, setting it apart from broader field alterations.[14] Party per pale. Party per pale denotes the vertical partition of the shield into two equal halves by a central perpendicular line, with each half bearing distinct tinctures or charges, fundamentally differing from the pale by dividing the entire field rather than overlaying a band.[14] In blazoning, the dexter (right) side is described first, underscoring the symmetric yet bifurcated nature of this partition.[14]Special Forms
In heraldry, a couped pale represents a truncated form of the ordinary, where the vertical band does not extend fully to the edges of the shield, creating an appearance of being cut off at one or both ends.[22] This variation allows for greater flexibility in charge placement, particularly in fieldless badges or as a secondary geometric element, distinguishing it from the standard pale that spans the entire height.[22] In Canadian heraldry, this form is specifically termed a pale retrait, meaning "pulled back," often positioned in base to evoke withdrawal or restraint, as seen in blazons like "Azure a chevron Or surmounting a pale retrait in base."[23] The Canadian pale constitutes a regionally distinct variation, defined as a central vertical band occupying precisely half the width of the shield or flag, diverging from the traditional one-third proportion.[24] This design originated with the National Flag of Canada, proclaimed in 1965, blazoned as "Gules on a Canadian pale Argent a maple leaf Gules," to prominently feature the maple leaf emblem while maintaining vertical symmetry.[24] Its adoption has influenced subsequent heraldic practices, extending to personal and institutional arms within Canada for emphasis on national identity.[25] Historical anomalies of the pale include modifications to its edges while preserving its central vertical orientation, such as the pale embattled or pale wavy, which appear infrequently in medieval and early modern armory. A pale embattled features crenellated edges on both sides, evoking fortified battlements and adding a defensive connotation, as described in classic treatises where it is embattled throughout its length unlike a fess, which is typically embattled only on top.[9] Similarly, a pale wavy incorporates undulating lines along its borders, symbolizing water or fluidity, and is treated as a line of partition or edge variation in ordinaries, though rarer than straight-edged forms.[26] These variants, documented in 19th-century glossaries, served to differentiate arms in crowded noble lineages without altering the pale's core position.[2] In modern heraldry, particularly civic and corporate applications, the pale has been adapted for symbolic emphasis, often widening or modifying it to convey institutional values like unity or centrality. The Canadian pale exemplifies this trend, influencing municipal emblems and organizational seals to highlight focal charges, such as in the arms of Canadian provinces or corporations where the broad central band underscores leadership or heritage.[25] Such extensions prioritize visual impact in non-traditional contexts, aligning with guidelines from heraldic authorities that encourage innovative yet rule-abiding forms for contemporary use.[20]Historical and Modern Usage
In Coats of Arms
The pale emerged in 12th-century European heraldry as one of the simplest and boldest ordinaries, serving as an early charge for noble families seeking clear identification amid the chaos of battle.[12] This vertical band, occupying approximately one-third of the shield's width and centered from top to bottom, reflected the nascent system's emphasis on uncomplicated designs that could be readily recognized at a distance.[14] Symbolically, the pale often connoted strength and defense, drawing from its origins in the sharpened wooden stakes—known as pales—used to form protective barriers in medieval fortifications.[27] Its stake-like form evoked resilience, making it a fitting emblem for lineages asserting territorial guardianship.[28] Yet, it retained its inherent simplicity in state and royal arms, where bold ordinaries like the pale continued to prioritize visibility over elaboration.[29] Following the 17th century, heraldic design trended toward increased complexity overall, influenced by shifting social structures and warfare, with the pale frequently appearing in quartered shields to denote inheritance from allied or maternal lines.[14] This adaptation preserved the pale's utility in multifaceted family achievements, emphasizing lineage consolidation.[14]In Flags and Vexillology
In vexillology, the heraldic pale adapts effectively to flag design due to its vertical orientation, which aligns with the elongated proportions of most flags to create balanced, central emphasis in bicolored or triband layouts.[30] This vertical band, typically one-third the flag's width, provides a stable axis for symbolism, distinguishing it from horizontal divisions that may appear less prominent when flags wave.[30] A prominent example is the national flag of Canada, adopted on February 15, 1965, which incorporates a Canadian pale—a widened central vertical stripe occupying half the flag's width—to prominently display an eleven-point red maple leaf on a white field, bordered by red on either side.[31] This design, blazoned as gules on a Canadian pale argent a maple leaf gules, symbolizes peace, unity, and the country's natural landscape, marking a shift toward distinct national identity.[31] The broader pale ensures the emblem remains recognizable at a distance, enhancing visibility during ceremonies or from aircraft.[25] The pale appears in other flags as vertical stripes, such as the red-white-red triband of Peru, where the central white band functions as a pale denoting purity and peace amid the outer red for bloodshed in independence struggles. Similarly, historical banners associated with territories like the Pale of Calais under English control (1347–1558) incorporated vertical elements in English-derived designs to signify sovereignty, though often combined with crosses or lions rather than isolated pales. Flag design principles favor wider pales for practical reasons, as they improve legibility and impact when viewed from afar or in motion, aligning with vexillological recommendations for simplicity and bold contrasts over intricate details.[32] This approach influences modern corporate and regional flags, where the Canadian pale pattern recurs for its clean aesthetics; for instance, many Northwest Territories municipal flags employ it with a central white band for local emblems, promoting recognizability in community settings.[33] The 20th century witnessed a revival of the pale in postcolonial contexts, where its straightforward verticality supported simple, evocative designs to assert emerging national identities free from colonial complexity, as exemplified by Canada's flag amid broader decolonization movements.[34] Such uses prioritized two or three colors for mass production and symbolic clarity, influencing flags in former colonies seeking visual independence.[34]References
- https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/A_Complete_Guide_to_Heraldry/Chapter_9
- https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/The_Grammar_of_Heraldry/Chapter_4
- https://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/endorse