King of Arms facts for kids
A King of Arms is a special government officer found in countries like England, Scotland, and Wales. Their main job is to officially give out coats of arms to people. A King of Arms holds the highest rank among officers who deal with heraldry. Even if a country doesn't have a "King of Arms," it might have another person who does this important job. These officers also often help organize big national ceremonies.
Contents
What is a King of Arms?
A King of Arms is like a chief expert in heraldry. Heraldry is the study of coats of arms and badges. These officers make sure that new coats of arms are designed correctly. They also keep records of all the coats of arms that have been granted.
Their Main Duties
The most important duty of a King of Arms is to grant new coats of arms. This means they officially approve and record these unique designs. They also help people prove their right to use an existing coat of arms. Besides this, they often play a role in important national events. This can include royal weddings, coronations, or state funerals. They make sure everything follows old traditions.
Kings of Arms Around the World
Different countries have their own ways of handling coats of arms. Here's how some places manage it:
- In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, there are three Kings of Arms. Two of them grant coats of arms after getting approval from the Earl Marshal.
- In Scotland, the Lord Lyon has a lot of power. He can grant coats of arms without needing anyone else's permission.
- The Republic of Ireland has a "Chief Herald" who is in charge of granting coats of arms.
- Canada also has a "Chief Herald." This person leads the Canadian Heraldic Authority, which manages all heraldry in Canada.
- In South Africa, the "State Herald" is in charge of the Bureau of Heraldry.
- In Spain, a "Cronista de Armas" (which means "Chronicler of Arms") has the power to give people coats of arms.
Other Pages to Explore
Images for kids
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Banners showing the official arms of the three current English Kings of Arms.
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A King of Arms during the funeral of Albert VI of Austria.
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Louis d'Ursel was a King of Arms in Flanders.
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Kings of Arms appear in a painting where Grand Inquisitor Tomás de Torquemada asks the Catholic Monarchs to issue the edict for expulsion of the Jews from Spain in 1492.
See also
In Spanish: Rey de armas para niños
