Vert constitutes one of the five primary tinctures, or colors, utilized in the art and science of armory. In English heraldry, it is represented graphically in monochromatic engravings by diagonal lines drawn from the dexter chief to the sinister base. Although common in Continental heraldry, particularly in the German states, vert was historically the least frequent tincture in medieval English rolls of arms. This relative scarcity is often attributed to the difficulty of producing stable green pigments and dyes that would not fade to black or yellow under environmental exposure.
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Heraldry
Vert
//vɜːrt//
Vert is the heraldic tincture representing the color green, signifying hope, joy, and loyalty within the English system of blazon.
Etymology
Derived from the Old French 'vert', originating from the Latin 'viridis', meaning green or flourishing.
Historical Context
Emerging in the late 12th century as heraldry became systematized, vert was often associated with forest law and the 'vert and venison' jurisdictions of the English crown. During the Tudor period, it gained prominence through the green and white livery of the House of Tudor, and in later centuries, it was allegorically linked to the emerald and the planet Venus in the practice of blazoning by precious stones and celestial bodies.
Examples
- The arms of Baron Berners: 'Bourchier, a cross engrailed gules between four water-bougets sable', with certain cadets utilizing vert for differencing.
- The green dragon used as a supporter by the Tudor monarchs, particularly Henry VII.
- The arms of the Worshipful Company of Fruiterers: 'Azure, the tree of paradise or, between Adam and Eve, all proper, the serpent vert'.