Skip to main content

Herald's Tabard

1707-1714
Artist/maker unknown, English. Worn by Sir Henry St. George (the Younger), British, 1625 - 1715
In medieval times, heralds were messengers who wore tabards (open-sided garments) displaying their masters' arms to be recognized in battle. After heralds were charged with regulating the use of coats of arms, both their position and the garment became ceremonial. This tabard displays the coat of arms of Queen Anne (reigned 1702–14): the three lions of England and the lion rampant of Scotland quartered with the harp of Ireland and the fleurs-de-lis of France, then claimed by England. The Scottish symbol dates the tabard after the 1707 formation of the parliament of Great Britain....

Object Details

We are always learning more about our collection and updating the website. Want to share your knowledge about this work with us? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.