Page:A record of European armour and arms through seven centuries (Volume 1).djvu/133



Showing the circular shield of the Saxon. The profile view of a circular shield in the lower margin has been for the purpose of this illustration altered from the proper position in the needlework

Drawn from the Bayeux needlework. The attendants on Guy, Count of Ponthieu

From the Bayeux needlework. Showing also his gonfanon

the devices upon the front face of the shield are the earliest forms of heraldic blazon known (Figs. 74 and 75). It is difficult, however, to believe that these crude and indescribable markings on the shield possessed any heraldic significance, or, indeed, had any other purpose than that of mere orna