CHAP. XIX. Of living Creatures, Trees, Flowrs, &c. and the General Laws of Heraldry relating to them. (Book 19)
THere are some things proper to Heraldry, as the honorable Ordi∣nars, and of these I have treated particularly: but there are other things, which have only relation to Heraldry, as they are exprest as bear∣ings in the Shields of particular persons; as Planets, Meteors, Animals, Trees, Flowers: And thus, all things may be here comprehended, and Heralds to swell their Books, treat of those, either to show why such things are born: (But since that depends upon the actions done by the bear∣ers, that is rather the part of an Historian, then a Herald: But however in the second part of this work, wherein I have given an account of our Families and Arms, I have set down the reason of every Coat, as far as my enquirie can reach) Or else others make long discourses of the nature of the things born; but that belongs rather to a natural Philosopher, then to a Herald.
I am then resolv'd only to trouble my self with the general Laws to be observ'd in bearing these things, which I have reduc'd to these Rules.
1. The first is, that every thing be plac'd in its natural form, if there be no special reason for doing otherwise. For nature is the chief model, and pattern of Art in all things, and Art only imitates Nature.
2. That if a rapacious creature is to be set down, it is to be exprest in the posture that is most devouring; because then it is presum'd to shew most strength: and thus a Lyon is to be exprest, rampant, &c. Bart. de in∣sig. num. 16. animalia fera debent exprimi in act•• ferociori.
3. Other creatures that are not wild and ravenous, ought to be exprest in their noblest position, as a Horse salient, a grey-hound running, &c.