Digitised Armorials

A growing number of libraries and archives place digitised versions of manuscripts with collections of coats of arms online. This provides a great possibility to look at an expanding repertoire of armorials from right behind your screen. Below you will find a list of these manuscripts, which also includes sources that might not qualify as an armorial, but do hold a considerable number of coats of arms and are therefore undoubtedly valuable for anyone interested in this topic. To access the scan, click on the web links attached to each. While we hope to provide links to all genuine digitised armorials from the Middle Ages, we still welcome suggestions on armorials that we missed. Especially with regard to later copies of medieval armorials and early modern armorials this list is definitely not exhaustive and is continuously being updated.

As many manuscripts have been subjected to additions and alterations during the Middle Ages, they cannot be fitted into a single century. These manuscripts are categorized under the century in which the oldest part was made.

13th century

London, British Library, Add Roll 77720
London, BL, Add Roll 77720

London, BL, Add Roll 77720

This roll, usually called the Dering Roll, after Sir Edward Dering, who acquired the roll in the 17th century. It is one of the oldest original armorials, stemming from 1270-1280. It contains 324 shields that mainly represent the knights of Kent and Sussex

Weblink: http://www.bl.uk/

Literature:

Gérard Brault, Rolls of arms of Edward I (1272-1307) (Woodbridge, 1997).

London, British Library, Royal MS 14 C VII

London, British Library, Royal MS 14 C VII, f.10r

The manuscript contains the entire Historia Anglorum (covering 1066-1253) and the last part of the Chronica Majora (covering 1254-1259). It is identified as an autograph of Matthew Paris (d. 1259), monk in the abbey of St. Albans. The manuscript contains coats of arms in the margins, 95 in total. It is written in the 1250s, and it is argued that Matthew Paris himself was responsible for the painting the coats of arms himself. The coats of arms refer to the persons accounted in the chronicle. Further, Matthew Paris has applied an interesting manner of heraldic communication: he inverts the arms of those who die in that part of his chronicle.

Weblink: http://www.bl.uk/

Literature:

Richard Vaughan, Matthew Paris (Cambridge, 1958).

Thomas Daniel Tremlett and Hugh Stanford London, Rolls of Arms Henry III: The Matthew Paris Shields, C. 1244-59 (London, 1967) pp. 3-86.

Paris, Archives Nationales, AE I 25, no. 6 (MM 684)
Coats of arms of Priams sons in Armorial Le Breton. Ms. Archives Nationales AE I 25, no. 6 (MM 684) p.1

Paris, Archives Nationales AE I 25, no. 6 (MM 684) f.1v

The manuscript Archives Nationales AE I 25, no. 6 (MM 684), better known as Armorial le Breton, is an armorial of which the core section dates from the late 13th century. This part contains coats of arms of French nobles. The first pages of the manuscript hold the arms of the Trojan king Priam and his 5 legitimate and 28 illigitimate sons, which is dated on the end of the 13th or the beginning of the 14th century. In the 15th century, much was added to the armorial, such as the coats of arms of Christian kings, the 12 Pairs of France, the Nine Worthies and a genealogy of Hector de Flavy.

Weblink: http://www.culture.gouv.fr/ (Please note: The online presentation is incomplete.)

Literature:

Emmanuel de Boos ed., L’Armorial Le Breton (Paris, 2004).

Nicolas Civel, ‘Les insignes héraldiques des Troyens dans l’armorial Le Breton’ in:
Anne-Hélène Allirot e.a. eds., Une histoire pour in royaume (XIIe-XVe siècle) (Paris, 2010) pp. 409-433.

14th century

Bruxelles, Bibliothèque royale de Belgique, ms. 15652-56

Bruxelles, Bibliothèque royale de Belgique, ms. 15652-56, f. 55v

The Armorial Gelre (Wapenboek Gelre) originates in the second half of the 14th and early 15th century and is one of the most important sources for medieval heraldry. It is said to be compiled by the herold Claes Heynen. Alongside poems and other documents, the armorial contains some 1800 colored coat of arms, including those of secular and ecclesiastical nobles of medieval Europe.

Weblink: https://uurl.kbr.be/1733715

Burgos, Archivo Municipal, El libro de la Cofradía de Santiago
Burgos, Archivo Municipal, El libro de la Cofradía de Santiago. f.1v

Burgos, Archivo Municipal, El libro de la Cofradía de Santiago. f.1v

The Libro de la Cofradía de Santiago is a Spanish armorial that presents the members of the Saint James fraternity in Burgos. 311 persons are depicted riding a horse and bearing a shield with their coat of arms. Most of the images date from the 14th century, there are however some from the 15th and 16th century as well.

Weblink: http://www.alabarda.net/

Heidelberg, UB, cod. pal. germ. 848
Heidelberg, UB, cod. pal. germ 848. f.237r

Heidelberg, UB, cod. pal. germ 848. f.237r

The Große Heidelberger Liederhandschrift, or the Codex Manesse is a collection of medieval German poetry in the first place, which contains fair amount of coats of arms. The work stems from the early 14th century, with some mid-14th century additions. The portraits of the minstrels are accompanied by their coats of arms.

Weblink: http://digi.ub.uni-heidelberg.de

Literature:

Harald Drös, „Wappen und Stand der Minnesänger“ in: Elmar Mittler e.a. eds., Codex Manesse. Katalog zur Ausstellung 1988 in der Universitätsbibliothek Heidelberg (Heidelberg, 1988) pp. 127–152.

Karl Zangemeister, Die Wappen, Helmzierden und Standarten der Grossen Heidelberger Liederhandschrift (Manesse-Codex) (Görlitz 1892) accessible online

Innsbrück, Tiroler Landesarchiv, Codex Figdor
Innsbrück, Tiroler Landesarchiv, Codex Figdor, f.10r

Innsbrück, Tiroler Landesarchiv, Codex Figdor, f.10r

This is one of the three armorials of the Bruderschaft St. Christoph auf dem Arlberg. This manuscript is often called the Tiroler Handschrift or the Codex Figdor, after the archivist who discovered this manuscript in the late 19th century. The armorial shows next to the entries the coats of arms of donators of St. Christoph auf dem Arlberg hospice in Tirol and was made between 1394 and 1407.

Weblink: http://bilderserver.at/

Literature:

Eduard Widmoser und Werner Köfler eds., Botenbuch der Bruderschaft St. Christoph auf dem Arlberg. Tiroler Handschrift ‘Codex Figdor’ (Innsbruck and München, 1976).

Otto Hupp, Die Wappenbücher vom Arlberg. Tl. 1: Die drei Original-Handschriften von St. Christoph auf dem Arlberg aus den Jahren 1394 bis rund 1430 (Berlin, 1937).

Robert Büchner, St. Christoph am Arlberg. Die Geschichte von Hospiz und Taverne, Kapelle und Bruderschaft, von Brücken, Wegen und Straßen, Säumern, Wirten und anderen Menschen an einem Alpenpass. (Ende des 14. bis Mitte des 17. Jahrhunderts) (Böhlau, 2005).

München, Bayerisches Hauptstaatsarchiv, Geheimes Hausarchiv, Bände 3
München, Bayerisches Hauptstaatsarchiv, Geheimes Hausarchiv, Bände 3, f. 45v

München, Bayerisches Hauptstaatsarchiv, Geheimes Hausarchiv, Bände 3, f. 45v

This is one of the three armorials of the Bruderschaft St. Christoph auf dem Arlberg. The manuscript shows next to the entries the coats of arms of donators of the St. Christoph auf dem Arlberg hospice in Tirol.

Weblink: http://bilderserver.at/

Literature:

Eduard Widmoser und Werner Köfler eds., Botenbuch der Bruderschaft St. Christoph auf dem Arlberg. Tiroler Handschrift ‘Codex Figdor’ (Innsbruck and München, 1976).

Otto Hupp, Die Wappenbücher vom Arlberg. Tl. 1: Die drei Original-Handschriften von St. Christoph auf dem Arlberg aus den Jahren 1394 bis rund 1430 (Berlin, 1937).

Robert Büchner, St. Christoph am Arlberg. Die Geschichte von Hospiz und Taverne, Kapelle und Bruderschaft, von Brücken, Wegen und Straßen, Säumern, Wirten und anderen Menschen an einem Alpenpass. (Ende des 14. bis Mitte des 17. Jahrhunderts) (Böhlau, 2005).

Oxford, Bodleian, ms. Ashmole 804 pt. IV
Oxford, Bodleian, Ashmole 804 pt. IV. f. 1v-2r

Oxford, Bodleian, Ashmole 804 pt. IV. f. 1v-2r

This manuscript is known as the Powell’s Roll and it dates from the mid-14th century. This armorial presents banners and coats of arms of English nobles and knights.

Weblink: http://bodley30.bodley.ox.ac.uk

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 5230
Ms. BnF. 5230 f.1r

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 5230 f.1r

The Bellenville armorial dates from the late 14th century. Author and commissioner are unknown, but the text is written in Dutch, therefore it was probably made somewhere in the historical Netherlands. The armorial consists of two parts. The first part contains coats of arms of European nobles structured by lords. The second part seems to be a collection of occasional rolls of arms of tournaments, military campaigns or the Prussian voyages.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Literature:

Michel Pastoureau and Michel Popoff, L’armorial Bellenville (Lathuile, 2004).

Werner Paravicini, , ‘Bellenville. Wappenbücher, Herolde und Preussenfahrten in Europäischer Forschung‘, Francia 32 (2005) pp. 185-190.

Stuttgart, Württembergische Landesbibliothek, HB XIII 1
Stuttgart, Württembergische LB, HB XIII 1, f.10v

Stuttgart, Württembergische LB, HB XIII 1, f.10v

The Weingartner Liederhandschrift is a collection of German courtly poems accompanied by 25 miniatures. 20 of those contain coats of arms of the respective poets. This small parchment manuscript is dated on the first or second decade of the 14th century.

Weblink: http://digital.wlb-stuttgart.de/

Literature:

Carmen Kämmerer, ‘Die Weingartner Liederhandschrift in der Württembergischen Landesbibliothek Stuttgart’ in: Bibliotheksdienst 44, Nr. 6 (2010) pp. 553–564 (accessible online)

Wien, Haus-, Hof- und Staatsarchiv, Weiss 242
Wien, Haus-, Hof- und Staatsarchiv, Weiss 242. f.7r

Wien, Haus-, Hof- und Staatsarchiv, Weiss 242. f.7r

This is one of the three armorials of the Bruderschaft St. Christoph auf dem Arlberg. The armorial shows next to the entries the coats of arms of donators of the St. Christoph auf dem Arlberg hospice in Tirol. The first part of the armorial has been made in the late 14th and early 15th century. These are followed by additions from later centuries.

Weblink: http://bilddatenbank.khm.at/

Literature:

Eduard Widmoser und Werner Köfler eds., Botenbuch der Bruderschaft St. Christoph auf dem Arlberg. Tiroler Handschrift ‘Codex Figdor’ (Innsbruck and München, 1976).

Otto Hupp, Die Wappenbücher vom Arlberg. Tl. 1: Die drei Original-Handschriften von St. Christoph auf dem Arlberg aus den Jahren 1394 bis rund 1430 (Berlin, 1937).

Robert Büchner, St. Christoph am Arlberg. Die Geschichte von Hospiz und Taverne, Kapelle und Bruderschaft, von Brücken, Wegen und Straßen, Säumern, Wirten und anderen Menschen an einem Alpenpass. (Ende des 14. bis Mitte des 17. Jahrhunderts) (Böhlau, 2005).

Zürich, Landesmuseum, Zürcher Wappenrolle

Zurich, Landesmuseum, Zürcher Wappenrolle

Contrary to most armorials above, the Zürcher Wappenrolle is a roll instead of a codex. The roll is painted on the front and back side and if the four parts are put together, it measures about four meter. It dates from the 1340s and contains hundreds of coats of arms, mostly from nobles from modern-day Southern Germany, Switzerland and Western Austria.

Weblinks: http://www.e-codices.unifr.ch/

Literature:

Michel Popoff, Le role d’armes de Zurich (Paris, 1986).

Walther Merz and Friedrich Hegi, Die Wappenrolle von Zürich … mit den Wappen aus dem Hause zum Loch (Zürich and Leipzig, 1930).

Steen Clemmensen, The Zürich Armorial (Farum, 2009) (accessible online).

15th century

Antwerpen, Hendrik Conscience Heritage Library, B 89420 A

Antwerpen, Hendrik Conscience Heritage Library, B 89420 A, f.91v

This composite manuscript has been made by the herold Hendrik van Heesel, probably in the mid-15th century. In the manuscript, sections with coats of arms and sections with text alternate. The armorial depicts coats of arms from, among others, Austrian, Bohemian and Burgundian nobles.

Weblink: http://anet.be (Permalink)

Literature:

Wim van Anrooij, ‘Hendrik Van Heessel, héraut à la cour impériale et à la cour de Bourgogne’, Revue du Nord 366/367/3 (2006) pp. 709-726.

Augsburg, Staats- und Stadtbibliothek, 2 Cod H 1 (Cim 69)
Augsburg, Staats- und Stadtbibliothek , 2 Cod H 1 (Cim 69), f. 108r

Augsburg, Staats- und Stadtbibliothek , 2 Cod H 1 (Cim 69), f. 108r

At the end of this mid-15th century chronicle by Sigmund Meisterlin and continued by Hector Mülich, a small armorial is inserted from f.117r onwards. It opens with a full page coat of arms of Hector Mülich, followed by an image with the banner of Augsburg. Then are depicted the coats of arms that were painted, according to the introducing text, in a ‘trinckstübe’ in Augsburg in 1457.

Weblink: http://daten.digitale-sammlungen.de/

Bamberg, Staatsbibliothek, Hv. Msc. 302
Bamberg, Staatsbibliothek, Hv. Msc. 302, f.21r

Bamberg, Staatsbibliothek, Hv. Msc. 302, f.21r

The Nekrolog des Franziskanerklosters St. Anna in Bamberg was made around 1490 has continuations until 1757. It is a calendar with entries of deceased, and regularly these entries are accompanied by coats of arms.

Weblink: http://digital.bib-bvb.de

Literature:

Anton Jäcklein, ‘Das Nekrologium des ehemaligen Franziskaner-klosters zu Bamberg’, Bericht über das Wirken des Historischen Vereines zu Bamberg 36 (1874) pp. 1-82 (edition)

Klaus Graf, ‘Das Nekrolog des Franziskanerklosters St. Anna in Bamberg und andere wappengeschmückte Franziskaner-Nekrologien’. Blogpost accessible through this link

Basel, Universitätsbibliothek, AN II 3
Basel, Universitätsbibliothek, AN II 3, f.7r

Basel, Universitätsbibliothek, AN II 3, f.7r

This Matriculation Register of the Basel Rectorate has continuously been updated from 1460 onwards. It contains a considerable amount of coats of arms, most of them presenting rectors of the University of Basel.

Weblink: http://www.e-codices.unifr.ch

Literature:

P.L. Ganz, Die Miniaturen der Basler Universitätsmatrikel (Basel, 1960).

Berlin, Staatsbibliothek, Ms. Geneal. Fol. 271

Berlin, Staatsbibliothek, Ms. Geneal. Fol. 271, f. 77

This armorial is commonly referred to as the Berliner Wappenbuch. It consists of 134 paper folios, displaying almost a thousand coats of arms of arms of nobles from the Holy Roman Empire. Dated to around 1460, it shows some interesting similarities with the Ingeram and Haggenberg armorials.

Weblink: https://heraldik-wiki.de

Literature:

Lothar Müller-Westphal made an edition, which is completed, but not published yet. See the publisher’s website: http://www.degener-verlag.de

Berlin, Geheimes Staatsarchiv Preußischer Kulturbesitz, VIII. HA II, Nr. 21.

Berlin, Geheimes Staatsarchiv Preußischer Kulturbesitz, VIII. HA II, Nr. 21., f. 6r

The Grünenberg Armorial is named after its maker, Conrad Grünenberg, son of the mayor of Constance and a prominent resident of the city himself. There are various copies of this armorial, but, along with the München, BSB, cgm 145, this is considered to be the earliest version (on the different copies of Grünenberg’s armorial see the contributions on this website by Christof Rolker and Bernd Konrad). This manuscript has been produced in the 1480s and is regarded as one of the most impressive of its sort. It contains coats of arms of the European nobility, imaginary coats of arms of pagan nobility and a section dedicated to tournament societies in late 15th century southern Germany.

Weblink: http://dfg-viewer.de

Literature:

Steen Clemmensen, Conrad Grünenberg’s Wappenbuch (Farum, 2009) (accessible online).

Michel Popoff and Michel Pastoureau, Armorial Grünenberg (Milan, 2011).

Christof Rolker, ‘Heraldische Orgien und sozialer Aufstieg. Oder: Wo ist eigentlich ‚oben‘ in der spätmittelalterlichen Stadt?’, Zeitschrift für historische Forschung 42 (2015) pp. 191–224.

Christof Rolker, ‘Das Wappenbuch des Konrad Grünenberg. Acta et agenda‘, Zeitschrift für die Geschichte des Oberrheins 162 (2014) pp. 191-207.

Christof Rolker, ‘Turnier-ordnung’. Das Wappench des Konrad Grünenberg‘, Mittelalter. Zeitschrift des Schweizerischen Burgervereins 19 (2014) pp. 26-33.

Brugge, Openbare Bibliotheek, Ms. 437

Brugge, Openbare Bibliotheek, Ms. 437, f.361v

This manuscript holds the Excellente Cronike van Vlaenderen, a chronicle of Flanders. The Excellente Cronike van Vlaenderen is an edition and translation of the Flandria Generosa by Anthonis de Roovere from Bruges (ca. 1430-1482). This is paper copy from the late 15th century. It presents  a considerable number of coats of arms in between the text and in miniatures.

Weblink: http://cabrio.bibliotheek.brugge.be/

Literature:

See the entry in narrative-sources.be (search on NaSo ID: “C061” )

Bruxelles, Bibliothèque royale de Belgique, ms. IV 648

Bruxelles, Bibliothèque royale de Belgique, ms. IV 648, p.25

This manuscript contains a copy of book IV of Jan van Boendale’s Brabantsche Yeesten (chronicles of Brabant). It is probably produced in the mid-15th century. The highlights of this manuscript are sixty-nine miniatures, and in many of them coats of arms (on shields, but also clothing and other media) play an important part.

Weblink: http://uurl.kbr.be/1065581

Literature:

Bibliothèque royale Albert Ier. Cinq années d’acquisitions 1969-1973 (Bruxelles, 1975), pp. 53-58 (Accessible online).

Bruxelles, Bibliothèque royale de Belgique, ms. IV 1249
Brussels, KBR, MS IV 1249, f.8r

Bruxelles, KBR, MS IV 1249, f.8r

This armorial dates from the beginning of the 15th century and it depicts coats of arms of nobles mainly from Northern France and modern-day Belgium. It opens with the coats of arms of the Burgundian duke Philip the Bold. There is no modern edition of this armorial yet.

Weblink: The manuscript is taken offline temporarily. We will provide the weblink as soon as the manuscript is back online.

Literature:

Bibliothèque royale Albert Ier. Vingt-cinq  années d’acquisitions 1969-1994 (Bruxelles, 1994) pp. 16-17 (catalogue description online).

Bruxelles, Bibliothèque royale de Belgique, ms. II. 6567

Bruxelles, Bibliothèque royale de Belgique, II. 6567, f. 2v

The Lyncenich armorial was compiled around the middle of the 15th century. While the compiler is unknown, it is named after one of its first owners, Jean de Luxembourg, called Lyncenich. It contains about 2800 coats of arms and banners as well as 10 miniatures. The coats of arms represent nobles from among others France, England and Germany, divided into 80 segments.

Weblink: https://uurl.kbr.be/1734449

Literature:

Steen Clemmensen, The Lyncenich Armorial, Farum 2016. (accessible online).

Den Haag, KB, 79 K 21
Den Haag, KB, 79 K 21 f. 1v

Den Haag, KB, 79 K 21 f. 1v

The Armorial Beyeren has been made by the herald Claes Heyenensoen, who was also the maker of the Gelre Armorial. The manuscript is written in Dutch and was probalby finished in 1405. The manuscript consists of five different sections: the participants of a tournament in Compiègne in 1238, the participants of a tournament in Mons in 1310, the participant of a military expedition against the Frisians in 1396, the participants of the siege of Gorinchem in 1402 and, curiously, a list of the ‘three best’ persons carrying a certain name, e.g. the three best Williams.

Weblink: http://www.kb.nl/

Literature:

Werner Paravicini, ‘Armoriaux et histoire culturelle. Le role d’armes de Meilleurs Trois’ in: Louis Holtz, Michel Pastoureau and Hélène Loyaux eds., Les armoriaux. Histoire héraldique, sociale et culturelle des armoriaux médiévaux (Paris, 1997) pp. 361-382.

Den Haag, KB, 128 E 120
Den Haag, KB, 128 E 20. f.2r

Den Haag, KB, 128 E 20. f.2r

This relatively unknown manuscript is a late 15th century armorial, with some 16th century additions. Its stems from Northern France or the Southern Netherlands. The coats of arms are painted and blazoned.

Weblink: http://manuscripts.kb.nl/

Den Haag, KB, 1900 A 016

Den Haag, KB, 1900 A 016, f. 1v

The armorial displays the ancestors of count Engelbrecht II of Nassau (1451-1504), of both the paternal and maternal side. Engelbrecht was a knight of the Order of the Golden Fleece and powerful nobleman in the Low Countries. The coats of arms (one on each folio) represent the ancestors of the last 200 years. Remarkably, some of these alleged ancestors cannot be connected to Engelbrecht’s lineage, such as the kings of England and Scotland. Was his lineage embellished to increase his status?

There are two full page pictures of the same herald in the manuscript. He walks, lifts is hat, and wears a tabard with the coat of arms of Engelbrecht II of Nassau. It is therefore assumed that the manuscript was made by a herald in his service. It is dated to ca. 1490.

Weblink: http://www.kb.nl/

Den Haag, KB, KW 1900 A 008

Den Haag, KB, KW 1900 A 008. f.282v

The Kattendijke Kroniek is a chronicle that mainly deals with the history of Holland and Utrecht. It is dated to the early 1490s. It features a large number of coats of arms on shields and banners in miniatures or integrated into the text.

Literature:

Antheun Janse ed., Johan Huyssen van Kattendijke-Kroniek (Den Haag, 2005).

Weblink: http://www.kb.nl/

Detmold, Lippische Landesbibliothek, Mscr 3a

Detmold, Lippische Landesbibliothek, Mscr 3a, p.23

This is a French copy of the Beyeren armorial (Den Haag, KB, 79 K 21, see above), displaying the participants of the tournaments of Compiègne, Mons, and the military expeditions of the count of Holland in Kuinre and Gorinchem. It also includes the “three best” exponents of each name. The manuscript is dated to the late fifteenth century.

Weblink: http://s2w.hbz-nrw.de/llb/content/titleinfo/6430070

Literature:

Egon Frhr von Berchem, Donald Lindsay Galbreath, and Otto Hupp. “Die Wappenbücher des deutschen Mittelalters” in: Idem (eds.), Beiträge zur Geschichte der Heraldik (Berlin, 1939), pp. 1-114, p. 26.

Werner Paravicini, ‘Armoriaux et histoire culturelle. Le role d’armes de Meilleurs Trois’ in: Louis Holtz, Michel Pastoureau and Hélène Loyaux eds., Les armoriaux. Histoire héraldique, sociale et culturelle des armoriaux médiévaux (Paris, 1997) pp. 361-382.

Douai, Bibliothèque municipale, ms. 1110

Douai, Bibliothèque municipale, ms. 1110, f.159

This is an illustrated copy of the Excellente Cronike van Vlaenderen, a chronicle of Flanders. The manuscript is dated on the late 15th century. Its most striking element is a series of rulers over Flanders, with their coats of arms. The website of the Bibliothèque virtuelle des manuscrits médiévaux only displays the pictures with coats of arms.

Weblink: http://bvmm.irht.cnrs.fr/

Dresden, SLUB, Mscr. Dresd. P. 47
Dresden, SLUB, Mscr. Dresd. P. 47

Dresden, SLUB, Mscr. Dresd. P. 47, f.2v

This manuscript holds one of the earliest versions of Ulrich Füetrer’s Bayerische Chronik produced in 1478, and a series of portraits of Bavarian princes with verses and coats of arms. This section with the portraits and arms is probably of a slightly later date (based on the watermarks ca. 1480s) and stands in close relation to a later version of Füetrer’s chronicle.

Weblink: http://digital.slub-dresden.de/

Literature:

Moeglin, Jean-Marie, ‘Das Reich und die bayerischen Fürsten in einer ersten (?) Fassung der Bayerischen Chronik von Ulrich Füetrer’  in: Paul-Joachim Heinig, Sigrid Jahns, Hans-Joachim Schmidt, Rainer Christoph Schwinges, and Sabine Wefers (eds.) FS Peter Moraw (Berlin, 2000) pp. 675–697

Studt, Birgit, ‘Zwischen historischer Tradition und politischer Propaganda. Zur Rolle der ‘kleinen Formen’ in der spätmittelalterlichen Geschichtsüberlieferung’,  in:  Hagen Keller, Christel Meier, and Thomas Scharff (eds.) Schriftlichkeit und Lebenspraxis im Mittelalter, 76 (München, 1999) pp. 203-218

Thumser, Antje, ‘Die ‘Bayerische Chronik’ des Ulrich Fuetrer († um 1496) – Neue Überlegungen zur Überlieferungsgeschichte’  in: Matthias Thumser (ed.), Editionswissenschaftliche Kolloquien 2005-2007 (Torún, 2008) pp. 303–322.

Eichstätt, Universitätsbibliothek Eichstätt-Ingolstadt, Cod. st 704

Eichstätt, Universitätsbibliothek Eichstätt-Ingolstadt, Cod. st 704, f. 42v

The Eichstätter Wappenbuch was comprised between 1474 and 1484. It contains approximately 2000 coat of arms.

Weblink: urn:nbn:de:bvb:824-cod-st-704-0

Literature:

Keller, Karl Heinz: Die mittelalterlichen Handschriften der Universitätsbibliothek Eichstätt 4, Wiesbaden 2017.

Egon Frhr von Berchem, Donald Lindsay Galbreath, and Otto Hupp. “Die Wappenbücher des deutschen Mittelalters” in: Idem (eds.), Beiträge zur Geschichte der Heraldik (Berlin, 1939), pp. 1-114, p. 96.

Heidelberg, UB, cod. pal. germ. 156
Heidelberg, UB, cod. pal. germ. 156, f.31r

Heidelberg, UB, cod. pal. germ. 156, f.31r

This is a German copy of Johannes de Thurocz’s Chronica Hungarorum, produced in Bavaria, probably in the 1490s. It contains miniatures of Hungarian rulers, some of which with their coats of arms.

Weblink: http://digi.ub.uni-heidelberg.de/

Karlsruhe, Badische Landesbibliothek, Cod. Donaueschingen 496

Karlsruhe, Badische Landesbibliothek, Cod. Donaueschingen 496, f. 7r

The Donaueschinger Wappenbuch was probably comprised around the 1430s or 1460s.

Weblink: urn:nbn:de:bsz:31-134228

Literature:

Karl August Barack, Die Handschriften der Fürstlich-Fürstenbergischen Hofbibliothek zu Donaueschingen, Tübingen 1865 (Nachdruck Hildesheim/New York 1974), S. 335f. [BSB online] [Google Books]

Egon Frhr von Berchem, Donald Lindsay Galbreath, and Otto Hupp. “Die Wappenbücher des deutschen Mittelalters” in: Idem (eds.), Beiträge zur Geschichte der Heraldik (Berlin, 1939), pp. 1-114, p. 104-106.

Felix Heinzer, Donaueschinger Wappenbuch, in: “Unberechenbare Zinsen”. Bewahrtes Kulturerbe. Katalog zur Ausstellung der vom Land Baden-Württemberg erworbenen Handschriften der Fürstlich Fürstenbergischen Hofbibliothek, hg. von Felix Heinzer, Stuttgart 1993, S. 136f. (Nr. 40).

Karlsruhe, Badische Landesbibliothek, Cod. St. Georgen 63

Karlsruhe, Badische Landesbibliothek, Cod. St. Georgen 63, f. 54r

This manuscript represents a copy of Ulrich Richental’s Chronicle of the Council of Constance (known as “G”), originating ca 1470. Compared to other copies, this one has a particularly detailed armorial section. For more on the Richental’s chronicle and armorial see the articles by Christof Rolker and Tina Raddatz on Heraldica Nova.

Weblink: urn:nbn:de:bsz:31-37921

Literature:

Steen Clemmensen, Arms and people in Ulrich Richental’s Chronik des Konzils zu Konstanz 1414-1418 (2011). Online introduction and edition, which can be accessed through this link.

Kassel, Universitätsbibliothek, 4 Ms. Hist. 4
Kassel, Universitätsbibliothek, 4 Ms. Hist. 4 p.140

Kassel, Universitätsbibliothek, 4 Ms. Hist. 4 p.140

This manuscript contains the statutes of the Order of the Golden Fleece and lists its members. The knights of the order are presented with their coats of arms from p. 139 onwards. This part is structured by the chapters of the order at which new members were admitted. The manuscript was probably produced in the late 15th century and parts were added in the 16th century.

Weblink: http://orka.bibliothek.uni-kassel.de/

Krakow, Biblioteka Jagiellońska, Banderia Prutenorum
Krakow, Biblioteka Jagiellońska, Banderia Prutenorum, f.8v

Krakow, Biblioteka Jagiellońska, Banderia Prutenorum, f.8v

The manuscript Banderia Prutenorum represents the banners of Teutonic knights who were defeated by Polish and Lithuanian forces at Tannenberg in 1410. In total, 56 banners, of which the last 10 are later additions, are depicted. The armorial is part of Jan Dlogosz’s chronicle and the coats of arms have been painted by Stanislaw Durink, who executed this work in the mid-15th century.

Weblink: http://www.laborunion.lt

Literature:

Sven Ekdahl, Die “Banderia Prutenorum” Des Jan Długosz, Eine Quelle Zur Schlacht Bei Tannenberg 1410 (Göttingen, 1976).

Krakow, Biblioteka Jagiellońska, Berol. Ms. Germ. Qu. 1479
Krakow, Biblioteka Jagiellońska, Berol. Mgq 1479. f 9r

Krakow, Biblioteka Jagiellońska, Berol. Mgq 1479. f 9r

The manuscript probably dates from 1460s, with continuations throughout the following decades. The work is known as the herald’s book of the Order of St. Hubert, established by the Duke of Jülich-Berg in 1444. The armorial presents among others coats of arms of European nobility and contains a large section with coats of arms of person’s ancestors.

Weblink: http://fbc.pionier.net.pl

Literature:

http://archiv.twoday.net

Leonie Gräfin von Nesselrode, “Neue Erkenntnisse zum Heroldsbuch und Bruderschaftsbuch des jülisch-bergischen Hubertusordens”, Jahrbuch für westdeutsche Landesgeschichte 36 (2010) p.131-162

Hans Wegener, Beschreibende Verzeichnisse der Miniaturen-Handschriften der Preußischen Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin (Leipzig 1928) [Text und 2 Abbildungen, u.A. Tafel 6]

Wilhelm Ewald, Rheinische Heraldik (Düsseldorf 1934), note. 200 – p. 214, Description– p. 169-172, 2 Images– p. 170.

London, British Library, Add MS 48976
London, BL, Add ms 48976

London, BL, Add ms 48976

The Rous Roll, named after his maker John Rous, is a roll containing short biographies of more that 50 persons. Their portrets are pen-drawn, and accompanied by their painted coats of arms. The roll dates from 1483.

Weblink: http://www.bl.uk/

Literature:

The Rous Roll / John Rous (Gloucester, 1979) (Reprint of H.G. Bohn’s 1859 edition with an introduction by Charles Ross)

D. Griffith, ‘Owners and Copyists of John Rous’ Armorial Rolls’ in: Wendy Scase ed., Essays in Manuscript Geography. Vernacular Manuscripts of the English West Midlands from the conquest to the Sixteenth Century (Turnhout, 2007) pp. 203-228.

London, British Library, Harley 4205
London, BL, Harley 4205 f.19v

London, BL, Harley 4205 f.19v

This manuscript is known as the Sir Thomas Holme’s Book of Arms. It is named after Thomas Holmes, who was Clarenceux King of Arms in the late 15th century, but it is unclear who were the authors of the various parts of this work. The first part contains verses on the Kings of England, who are depicted in a tabard with their coat of arms. The second part presents charging knights on their horses. Their blasons are depicted on their clothing and horses. The third part, known as Legh’s Men of Arms, contains armoured knights holding a banner.

Weblink: http://www.bl.uk/

London, British Library, Harley 6199
London, BL, Harley 6199. f.57v

London, BL, Harley 6199. f.57v

This manuscript is a copy of the Statutes of the Order of the Golden Fleece. It has been produced in Bruges in the 1480s. The coats of arms of the knights of the order are depicted on f.57v-f.77r.

Weblink: http://www.bl.uk/

London, British Library, Stowe 594
London, BL, Stowe 594. f.7v

London, BL, Stowe 594. f.7v

William Bruges’ Garter Book displays the coats of arms of the Knights of the Order of the Garter, which was established in 1348 by King Edward III. It dates from the 1430s or 1440s and it was made for William Bruges, Garter King of Arms. This is the first armorial of the Order of the Garter.

Weblink: http://www.bl.uk/

London, Lambeth Palace Library, MS774

London, Lambeth Palace Library, MS774, f. 2r

The arms in this manuscript relate mainly to the Holy Roman Empire, Eastern Europe and Scandinavia, but also include fictional arms. It appears to be executed by the hand of the illustrator styled the ‘Exempla Master’, a contributor of several sections to the Codex Cotta/Ingeram Codex. It is difficult to date, but a range from c.1447–1449 has been proposed.

Weblink: http://www.lambethpalacelibrary.org.uk

Manchester, John Rylands, Latin MS 28
Manchester, John Riley, Latin MS 28 p. 81

Manchester, John Rylands, Latin MS 28 p. 81

This manuscript has been made in 1416/1418 by a Portuguese herald, attending the Council of Constance. Contrary to most armorials, this manuscript is written in Latin. It holds 25 banners and multiple small collections of coats of arms, each containing two to several dozen coats of arms.

Weblink: http://enriqueta.man.ac.uk/

Literature:

Werner Paravicini, ‘Signes et couleurs au Concile de Constance. Le témoignage d’un
héraut d’armes portugais’ in  D. Turrel e.a. eds., Signes et couleurs des identités politiques du Moyen Age à nos jours (Rennes, 2008) pp. 155-187

Aires Augusto Nascimento, Livro de arautos. De ministerio armorum, script. anno MCCCCXVI, ms. lat. 28, J. Rylands Library (Manchester). Estudo codicológico, histórico, literário, linguístico, texto crítico e tradução (Lisbon, 1977)

Steen Clemmensen, The Herald’s book (Farum, 2011) (accessible online)

München, BSB, cgm 98
MS. BSB Cgm 98 p. 1

München. BSB, Cgm 98 f.1r

This manuscript is generally called the Gossembrot armorial. It dates from 1469. Gossembrot was a a prominent patrician in the city of Augsburg. The manuscript contains coats of arms of Augsburgian families and Gossembrot’s relatives. Furthermore, it holds a section with blazoned versions of the presented coats of arms. There is no modern edition of this armorial.

Weblink: http://daten.digitale-sammlungen.de

München, BSB, cgm 145
Dye loblich gesellschafft der Kron im "Wappenbuch Conrads von Grünenberg, Ritters und Bürgers zu Constanz" (München, BSB, Cgm 145, S. 255)

München, BSB, Cgm 145 f.129r

The Grünenberg Armorial is named after its maker, Conrad Grünenberg, son of the mayor of Constance and a prominent resident of the city himself. There are various copies of this armorial, but, along with the Berlin, Geheimes Staatsarchiv Preußischer Kulturbesitz, VIII. HA II, Nr. 21, this is considered to be the earliest version (on the different copies of Grünenberg’s armorial see the contributions on this website by Christof Rolker and Bernd Konrad). This manuscript has been produced in the 1480s and is regarded as one of the most impressive of its sort. It contains coats of arms of the European nobility, imaginary coats of arms and a section dedicated to the various tournament societies in late 15th century southern Germany.

Weblink: http://daten.digitale-sammlungen.de

Literature:

Steen Clemmensen, Conrad Grünenberg’s Wappenbuch (Farum, 2009) (accessible online).

Michel Popoff and Michel Pastoureau, Armorial Grünenberg (Milan, 2011).

Christof Rolker, ‘Heraldische Orgien und sozialer Aufstieg. Oder: Wo ist eigentlich ‚oben‘ in der spätmittelalterlichen Stadt?’, Zeitschrift für historische Forschung 42 (2015) pp. 191–224.

Christof Rolker, ‘Das Wappenbuch des Konrad Grünenberg. Acta et agenda‘, Zeitschrift für die Geschichte des Oberrheins 162 (2014) pp. 191-207.

Christof Rolker, ‘Turnier-ordnung’. Das Wappench des Konrad Grünenberg‘, Mittelalter. Zeitschrift des Schweizerischen Burgervereins 19 (2014) pp. 26-33.

München, BSB, cgm 2213 (38)
München, BSB, cgm 213 (38). f.295v

München, BSB, cgm 213 (38). f.295v

This 17th century collection by Johann Gottfried von Redinghoven contains a section that is called armorial Redinghoven, a manuscript from the 1440s (f.295-f.316). It presents coats of arms from German noblemen, but a few rows with arms of European kingsare also included.

Weblink: http://daten.digitale-sammlungen.de

München, BSB, cod. icon. 290
München, BSB, cod. icon. 290. f.46r

München, BSB, cod. icon. 290. f.46r

In the 16th century, a man named Jobst Walther sent this armorial from Barcelona to Jakob Fugger in Augsburg, and thus this Spanish manuscript ended up in a German library. The full title of this armorial is: Armas de los Condes, Vescondes, Vervefores, marqueses, barones etc. de Cataluña, de Castilla, de Portugal, de Navarra y de Aragon y de Valencia con las rentas que cada uno tiene. It contains coats of arms of Spanish and Portuguese noblemen. The armorial stems from the second half of the 15th or the first half of the 16th century.

Weblink: http://codicon.digitale-sammlungen.de

München, BSB, cod. icon. 308n
München, BSB, cod. icon. 308n. f. 1v

München, BSB, cod. icon. 308n. f. 1v

München BSB cod. icon. 308 is also known as the Wernigeroder (after the town were it was kept in the library) or the Schaffenhausen (the familiy that owned the armorial around 1600) armorial. The manuscript was made in the last quarter of the 15th century. It shows some interesting imaginary coats of arms such as the Trinity symbol and the Arma Christi. Further, it holds arms from kings and nobles throughout Europe, with a special focus on southern German nobility.

Weblink: http://codicon.digitale-sammlungen.de

Literature:

Catalogue description online

München, BSB, cod. icon. 308u
München, BSB, Cod. icon. 308, f. 15r

München, BSB, sod. icon. 308u, f. 15r

The BSB, Cod. icon. 308 is also known as the Ortenburger armorial, named after the first known possessor in the 16th century, Joachim von Ortenburg. It dates from the 1460s and it contains among others coats of arms of German princes, counts and bishops.

Weblink: http://codicon.digitale-sammlungen.de

Literature:

Catalogue description online

München, BSB, cod. icon. 309
München, BSB, cod. icon. 309. f.4r

München, BSB, cod. icon. 309. f.4r

BSB, cod. icon. 309 is a little studied armorial that dates from the late 15th or the first half of the 16th century. It has probably been made in the south of Germany and it presents the coats of arms of the southern German and Austrian nobility.

Weblink: http://codicon.digitale-sammlungen.de

Literature:

Catalogue description online

München, BSB, cod. icon. 310
München, BSB, Cod.icon. 310, f. 1ar

München, BSB, cod. icon. 310, f. 1ar

This armorial is little studied. It dates from the 1490s and contains, interestingly, two images of the herald Anton Tirol. The armorial presents a collection of coats of arms of from Austria, Burgundy, France as well as the Quaternionen and a text on the origin of heralds.

Weblink: http://codicon.digitale-sammlungen.de

Literature:

Catalogue description online

München, BSB, cod. icon. 311
München, BSB, cod. icon. 311. f.3r

München, BSB, cod. icon. 311. f.3r

BSB cod. icon. 311 consists of different parts. The first few pages are probably from Augsburg and stem from the last quarter of the 15th century. The main part of the armorial, however, dates from the 16th century, also from Southern Germany. It depicts coats of arms of German nobles.

Weblink: http://codicon.digitale-sammlungen.de

Literature:

Catalogue description online

München, BSB, cod. icon. 312c
München, BSB, cod. icon. 312c. f. 5r

München, BSB, cod. icon. 312c. f. 5r

This armorial is better known as the Scheibler’sches armorial. It dates from the mid 15th century, but it contains an elaborate 17th century addition as well. Mainly German, Dutch and Austrian nobles are represented, whose coats of arms fill the entire page.

Weblink: http://codicon.digitale-sammlungen.de

Literature:

Catalogue description online

München, BSB, cod. icon. 318
München, BSB, cod. icon. 318. f.5r

München, BSB, cod. icon. 318. f.5r

This armorial is most often called the Bruderschaftsbuch des jülich-bergischen Hubertusordens. It presents the coats of arms of the members of knightly order of Saint-Hubert. This order was established in 1444 by the duke of Jülich-Berg. The manuscript was probably made in the second half of the 15th century.

Weblink: http://codicon.digitale-sammlungen.de

Literature:

Catalogue description online

Leonie von Nesselrode, „Neue Erkenntnisse zum Heroldsbuch und Bruderschaftsbuch des jülisch-bergischen Hubertusordens.“ Jahrbuch für westdeutsche Landesgeschichte 36 (2010) pp. 131–162.

Joseph Würdinger, „Beiträge zur Geschichte der Gründung und der ersten Periode des bayerischen Hausritterordens vom heiligen Hubertus 1444-1709“, Abhandlungen der Historischen Klasse der Königlich-Bayerischen Akademie der Wissenschaften 15 (1880) pp. 171–218.

München, BSB, Ink. C-284
München, BSB, Ink. C-284

München, BSB, Ink. C-284

A few pages in the chronicle of Cologne have the characteristics of an armorial. The author of this chronicle is unknown, but we do know the name of printer: Johann Koelhoff the Younger, who printed this book in 1499.

Weblink: http://inkunabeln.digitale-sammlungen.de/

Oxford, Bodleian, Lat. misc. e. 86
Bodleian MS Lat. misc. e. 86. f.37v-38r

Bodleian MS Lat. misc. e. 86. f.37v-38r

This manuscript, written in Latin and English, is a heraldic treatise from the second half of the 15th century. At first glance it appears to be for educational or reference purposes, since the texts seem to indicate the names of charges and figures in the coats of arms.

Weblink: http://www.bodley.ox.ac.uk/

Paris, Bibliothèque de l’Arsenal, ms. 4790
Ms. BnF. 4790 f. 47v

Paris, Bibliothèque de l’Arsenal, ms. 4790 f. 47v

Armorial Toison d’Or is an institutional armorial. In this case, the institution for which the armorial was produced was the famed Order of the Golden Fleece, established in 1430 by Philip the Good, duke of Burgundy. The manuscript was made in the late 1440s, depicting coats of arms of members of the order as well as of other European nobles. The manuscript is well known for its portraits of mounted kings and high nobles. The first weblink below links to a special presentation of parts of the manuscript with an introduction on the website of the BnF , the second links to a scan of the entire manuscript on Gallica

Weblink: http://expositions.bnf.fr/

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Literature:

Michel Pastoureau and Michel Popoff, Grand amorial équestre de la Toison d’Or (Saint-Jorioz, 2001).

Paris, Bibliothèque de l’Arsenal, ms. 4976
Paris, Bibliothèque d' Arsenal, ms. 4976, f.3r

Paris, Bibliothèque d’ Arsenal, ms. 4976, f.3r

This book deals with the knights of the round table and contains a portrait and the coat of arms of each knight. It is written in French and dates from the late 15th century.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr

Paris, Bibliothèque de l’Arsenal, ms. 5024
Paris, Bibliothèque de l'Arsenal, ms. 5024. f. 1r

Paris, Bibliothèque de l’Arsenal, ms. 5024. f. 1r

This manuscript contains a short armorial with the coats of arms of the knight of the round table. It is written in French and probably dates from the second half of the 15th century.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Literature:

Michel Pastoureau, Armorial des chevaliers de la table ronde – Etude sur l’héraldique imaginaire à la fin du Moyen-Âge (Paris, 2006)

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 1437
Paris, BnF, ms. fr 1437, f.5v

Paris, BnF, ms. fr 1437, f.5v

This 15th-century manuscript presents the Knights of the Round Table, with their coats of arms. Unfortunately, only a black/white scan is available.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Literature:

Michel Pastoureau, Armorial des chevaliers de la table ronde – Etude sur l’héraldique imaginaire à la fin du Moyen-Âge (Paris, 2006)

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 2249
Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 2249. f.41r

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 2249. f.41r

This armorial is often called the armorial of the héraut Vermandois. The manuscript, produced in the 15th century, is generally acknowledged to be a copy of a late 13th century original. The coats of arms in this armorial are not painted, but blazoned.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 4985
Ms. BnF. 4790 f. 20v

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 4790 f. 20v

The manuscript BnF, ms. fr. 4985, better known of the Armorial of the Heraut Berry, dates from the mid-15th century. It was made by Gilles de Bouvier, who was king of Arms of France during the reign of Charles VII. Besides coats of arms, who are mainly structured by marches d’armes, the armorial also holds portraits of mounted knights. In its current state the manuscript is somewhat disordered.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Literature:

Emmanuel de Boos, Armorial de Gilles de Bouvier. Héraut Berry (Paris, 1995).

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 5930
Paris, BnF, fr. 5930. f.56r

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 5930. f.56r

This 15th century manuscript contains a short collection of coats of arms of 12 pages. It presents European kings and French nobility.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 5936

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 5936, f. 14r

This manuscript of the Traité de blason de Clément Prinsault is probably a copy specifically dedicated to Jacques II d’Armagnac. It originates in the second half of the 15th century. Compared to other versions, the coat of arms accompanying the treaty are roughly colored.

Weblink: https://gallica.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/btv1b53023953p/f1.item

Literature:

Claire Boudreau, L’héritage symbolique des hérauts d’armes. Dictionnaire encyclopédique de l’enseignement du blason ancien (XIVe-XVIe siécle), Paris 2006, p. 74f.

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 12597
Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 12597, f.11r

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 12597, f.11r

This 15th-century manuscript presents the Knight of the Order of the Round Table, with their coats of arms.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr

Literature:

Michel Pastoureau, Armorial des chevaliers de la table ronde – Etude sur l’héraldique imaginaire à la fin du Moyen-Âge (Paris, 2006)

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 14357
Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 14357. f.1r

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 14357. f.1r

This manuscript dates from the late 15th century. It appears to be a heraldic treatise, with a collection of coats of arms on f.10v-f.29v. On one of the first pages the French king is depicted, encircled by the coats of arms of high French nobles.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 11464
Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 11464, f.33v

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 11464, f.33v

This manuscript, containing the Argentaye tract, holds a short painted collection of coats of arms and from f.61r-f.70v a blazoned one. It dates from the late 15th century. The Brittany part of the blazoned collection has been edited.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Literature:

Bertrand Yeurc’h and Jean-Luc Deuffic, “L’armorial Breton Du Manuscrit l’Argentaye: édition Commentée.” Bulletins et Mémoires. Société d’Emulation Des Côtes-D’Armor 141 (2012): 39–63. (Accessible online)

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 18651
Ms. BnF. 18651 f. 44r

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 18651 f. 44r

The manuscript ms. BnF. 18651 is generally called the Armorial Coislin Séguier. It originates from Lotharingia and dates from the mid-15th century. It depicts coats of arms of nobles all over Europe, with a special focus on the French nobility. There is no modern edition of this armorial.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 22297
Ms. BnF. 22297 p. 123

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 22297 p. 123

The manuscript BnF, ms. fr. 22297 dates from the 1450s and was made by Guillaume Revel, herald Auvergne during the reign of Charles VII. This armorial is quite unique, for it only represents the coats of arms of the nobles of three regions: Auvergne, Bourbonnais and Forez. These regions were in possession of Charles I of Bourbon and the armorial was dedicated to his memory. Besides coats of arms, the amorial contains many detailed views of towns and castles in these areas. Guillaume Revel apparently did not get the opportunity to complete his armorial, for only about 25% of the drawn shields have actually been painted with a coat of arms.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Literature:

Emmanuel de Boos, L’armorial d’Auvergne Bourbonois et Forestz de Guillaume Revel (Nonette, 1998).

Pierre-Yves Laffont, L’Armorial de Guillaume Revel. Châteaux, villes et bourgs du Forez au XVe siècle (Lyon, 2011).

Gabriel Fournier, Chateaux, villages et villes d’Auvergne au XVème siècle d’après Armorial de Guillaume Revel (Genève, 1973).

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 23077
Paris, BnF, fr. 23077. f.137v

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 23077. f.137v

This 17th century volume, with some copies by François Roger de Gaignières, also contains of what seems to be an original 15th century heraldic treatise (f.128-f.140). After some coats of arms that appear to serve as an educational example, the arms of some European kings and dukes are presented.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 23989
Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 23989, f.21v

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 23989, f.21v

This late-15th– century manuscript is a copy of the genealogy of Pierre of Luxembourg and his wife Marguerite des Baux. The explicit states it was made in 1471, but it probably concerns a slightly later copy of the original (Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 5471). The texts in which the ancestors are described are accompanied by their coats of arms.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Literature:

Germain Butaud, ‘Enquête Généalogique et Histoire: l’Artois et Les Régions Voisines Dans La Généalogie de Luxembourg de Clément de Sainghin (1471)’ in : Alain Provost (ed.), Les Comtes d’Artois et Leurs Archives. Histoire, Mémoire et Pouvoir Au Moyen Age (Arras, 2012) pp. 133–60

Germain Butaud, ‘Généalogie et Histoire Des Rois Mages: Les Origines Légendaires de La Famille Des Baux (XIIIe-XVe S.)’ in : Famille et Parenté Dans La Vie Religieuse Du Midi (XIIe – XVe Siècle) (Toulouse, 2008) pp. 107–154

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 24339
Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 24399, f.91r

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 24399, f.91r

This copy of the Livre du coeur d’amour épris by René d’Anjou is a luxurious parchment manuscript with a large number of miniatures. It dates from the 1460s-1480s. One series depict a scene where great historical leaders are commemorated, and their coats of arms are depicted on the miniatures.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Literature:

There are many works written on the Livre du coeur d’amour épris, too many to mention here. The following article deals with the heraldry in this book.

Florence Bouchet, ‘Rhétorique de l’héraldique dans le roman arthurien tardif: le ‘Meliador’ de Froissart et le ‘Livre du Cuer d’Amours espris’ de René d’Anjou’,  Romania 116 (1998) pp. 239–255.

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 24381
Paris, BnF, fr. 24381. f.156r

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 24381. f.156r

Jean de Bueil’s semi-autobiographic novel about his experiences in the Hundred Years War contains an armorial of around 50 pages. His manuscript dates from the 1460s. The collection of coats of arms contains among others imaginary coats of arms, arms of the European kings and French nobles.

Weblink: http://www.vikinganswerlady.com/

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 24920
Ms. BnF. 24920 f. 2r

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 24920 f. 2r

This armorial is often reffered to as the armorial of the herald of Navarra, although it is definitely not certain that the herald of Navarra was actually the compiler of this work. The original dates from the late 14th century, but has been lost. This copy of this digitized version dates from the 15th century and holds coats of arms of the French royal family and other French nobles, plus some European kings. There is no modern edition of this armorial.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 25204
Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 25240, f.46v

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 25204, f.46v

These are the Statutes of the Ordre du Croissant, founded by René d’Anjou in 1448. The statutes are followed by 32 full page coats of arms of the members of this chivalric order.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr

Literature:

Michel Popoff, ‘l’Ordre du Croissant’, Histoire et généalogie, n° 37 (1991), p. 41-59 ; n° 38 (1991), p. 55-64 ; n° 39 (1992), p. 57-63 ; n° 40 (1992), p. 49-55

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 32753
Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 32753. f.35v

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 32753. f.35v

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 32753 is better known as the Armorial Urfé. This manuscript dates from the 15th century and the coats of arms are not painted, but blazoned.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Literature:

Steen Clemmensen, Armorial Urfé. A preliminary edition of the English segment (Farum, 2007) (accessible online).

Philadelphia, Free Library, Ms Lewis E201
Philadelphia, Free Library, Ms Lewis E201

Philadelphia, Free Library, Ms Lewis E201

This roll is a textual and pictorial genealogy and holds a number of prominently placed coats of arms. This richly decorated roll shows the genealogy of Edward IV (1442-1483), who became the first Yorkist king of England in 1461.

Weblink: http://www.freelibrary.org/

Prague, Národní knihovna České republiky, XVI.A.17
Prague, Národní knihovna České republiky, XVI.A.17, f.245v

Prague, Národní knihovna České republiky, XVI.A.17, f.245v

This manuscript is a copy of Ulrich Richental’s Chronicle of the Council of Constance. This copy was made in Gebhard Dacher’s workshop and is dated on 1464. Remarkably, the text and images are separated in this manuscript. The armorial can be found in the back of the codex.
For more on the Richental’s chronicle and armorial see the articles by Christof Rolker and Tina Raddatz on Heraldica Nova.

Weblink: http://v2.manuscriptorium.com

Literature:

Christof Rolker, Wappenbuch Richental V: Die Prager Handschrift, Heraldica Nova blogpost which can be accessed through this link

Steen Clemmensen, Arms and people in Ulrich Richental’s Chronik des Konzils zu Konstanz 1414-1418 (2011). Online introduction and edition, which can be accessed through this link

St. Gallen, Stiftsbibliothek, Cod. Sang. 646
Sankt Gallen, Stiftsbibliothek, cod. sang. 646, f.41v

Sankt Gallen, Stiftsbibliothek, cod. sang. 646, f.41v

This paper manuscript containing the Konstanzer Weltchronik by Gebhard Dacher is an autograph written in the 1460s/1470s in Constance. The text is accompanied by a considerable number of coats of arms.

Weblink: http://www.e-codices.unifr.ch/

Literature:

Theodor Ludwig, Die Konstanzer Geschichtschreibung bis zum 18. Jahrhundert (Strasbourg, 1894) p. 25 (accessible online)

Sandra Wolff, Die ‘Konstanzer Chronik’ Gebhart Dachers. ‘By des Byschoffs zyten volgiengen disz nachgeschriben ding vund sachen . ..’. Codex Sangallensis 646: Edition und Kommentar ( Ostfildern, 2008)

See Klaus Graf’s blogpost for a critique on this study and further references

St. Gallen, Stiftsbibliothek, Cod. Sang. 1084
Armorial St. Gallen

St. Gallen, Stiftsbibliothek, Cod. Sang. 1084 p.1

This copy of the St. Gallen, Stiftsbibliothek, is also known the Armorial of Hans Haggenberg, since it is stated in the introductury text that he has worked on the manuscript. These are however probably only the additions. The armorial dates from the second half of the 15th century, with later additions. It contains coats of arms of high imperial nobility, German nobles, bishops, the and some imaginary arms.

Weblink: http://www.e-codices.unifr.ch/fr/

Literature:

Steen Clemmensen, The Sankt Gallen – Haggenberg Armorial (Farum, 2012) (accessible online).

Stockholm, Riksarkivet, Bergshammar vapenbok, SE/RA/720085/Z

Stockholm, Riksarkivet, Bergshammar vapenbok, SE/RA/720085/Z, . p. 156.

This fascinating parchment manuscript contains over 3000 coats of arms, displaying first European high nobles by rank, and then nobles by political entities, with a focus on the Holy Roman Empire, France, and England. It is dated to the mid-15th century and it is assumed to have been made in the Southern Netherlands. Regrettably, nothing is known about the maker and context of use. An interesting aspect of this armorial are a handful of heraldic displays of ancestors of a number of rulers at the beginning of some segments (see image). The coat of arms of the ruler in question is in the center, surrounded by those of his four ancestors (parents and two grandmothers). Such displays are also in the Lyncenich armorial. Indeed, there are some striking similarities between this armorial and others, most notably the Gelre, Lyncenich and Toison d’Or armorials. On these complex relations see Steen Clemmensen’s Editing armorials (p. 81-97).

Weblink: https://sok.riksarkivet.se

Literature:

Jan Raneke, Bergshammarvapenboken – en medeltidsheraldisk studie (Lund, 1975)

Steen Clemmensen, Editing armorials. Cooperation, knowledge and approach by late medieval practitioners (Copenhagen, 2017), pp. 81-97 & 123-128

Toronto, Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library, MSS 01026

Toronto, Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library, MSS 01026

The Armorial de Clément Prinsault originates in the second half of the 15th century. It consists of two parts. The first is a Traité de blason and the second a collection of coats of arms. It also includes introductory verses on the Arma Christi by Jean Molinet.

Weblink: https://collections.library.utoronto.ca/view/fisher2:F9137

Literature:

Claire Boudreau, L’héritage symbolique des hérauts d’armes. Dictionnaire encyclopédique de l’enseignement du blason ancien (XIVe-XVIe siécle), Paris 2006, p. 74f.

Wien, Kunsthistorisches Museum, Inv.Nr. A 2302
Wien, Kunsthistorisches Museum, Inv.Nr. A 2302, f. 32r. Note the flames in Emperor Nero's coat of arms

Wien, Kunsthistorisches Museum, Inv.Nr. A 2302, f. 32r. Note the flames in Emperor Nero’s coat of arms

This Armorial is also known as Hans Ingerams armorial, named after the persevant of the tournament Society ‘Zum Esel’ who was the main artist producing this armorial. It probably dates from the 1450s. The focus is on Austrian nobles and members of tournament societies.

Weblink: http://commons.wikimedia.org/

Literature:

Emmanuel de Boos, L’armorial de Hans Ingeram (Paris, 2006).

Charlotte Becher and Ortwin Gamber, Die Wappenbücher Herzog Albrechts VI. von Österreich. Ingeram-Codex der ehem. Bibliothek Cotta (Wien, 1986)
Wien, Österreichische Nationalbibliothek, cod. 2899
Wien, ÖNB, cod. 2899. f.10r

Wien, ÖNB, cod. 2899. f.10r

This manuscript shows the genealogy of Philip the Upright, the elector Palatine of the Rhine. In the foreword is stated that, probably, Herman von Brüninghausen wrote this work in 1481. The ancestors are portrayed mounted on a horse wearing armor.

Weblink: http://search.obvsg.at/

Literature:

http://archiv.twoday.net

Wien, Österreichische Nationalbibliothek, Cod. 3044

Wien, Österreichische Nationalbibliothek, Cod. 3044, f.117v

This manuscript is a copy of Ulrich Richental’s Chronicle of the Council of Constance. It was probably produced in Constance around 1475. It is part of a composite manuscript, the Richental’s chronicle can be found on f. 26r-244r.

For more on the Richental’s chronicle and armorial see the articles by Christof Rolker and Tina Raddatz on Heraldica Nova.

Weblink: http://search.obvsg.at/

Literature:

Tina Raddatz, Wappenbuch Richental VII: Die Wiener Handschrift, Blogpost on Heraldica Nova which can be accessed through this link.

Steen Clemmensen, Arms and people in Ulrich Richental’s Chronik des Konzils zu Konstanz 1414-1418 (2011). Online introduction and edition, which can be accessed through this link

Wolfenbüttel, Herzog August Bibliothek, Cod. Guelf. 116 Blankenburg

Wolfenbüttel, Herzog August Bibliothek, Cod. Guelf. 116 Blank., f. 11v

The Blankenburg armorial dates from the 15th century, although parts of the second half may well date from the 16th century. Among the coats of arms contained are those of emperors, kings and popes as well as other nobles and clergy. In addition, the armorial also contains some municipal coats of arms. The composition style of the arms changes in the course of the manuscript.

Weblink: https://diglib.hab.de/?db=mss&list=ms&id=116-blank

Literature:

Hans Butzmann, Die Blankenburger Handschriften (Kataloge der Herzog August Bibliothek Wolfenbüttel: Neue Reihe, Bd. 11), Frankfurt am Main 1966, S. 121-123. [online]

Zürich, Zentralbibliothek, MS A 75

Zürich, Zentralbibliothek, MS A 75, p. 421

This manuscript holds the Zürcher- und Schweizerchronik by Gerold Edlibach. Edlibach was a writer and member of the city council of Zürich. He has written this Swiss and Zürich chronicle in 1485/86. The autograph holds a large amount of miniatures, many of which present coats of arms on coats of arms and banners. Furthermore, in the back of the manuscript there are a couple of folios with a small collection of Swiss coats of arms.

Weblink: http://www.e-manuscripta.ch

Literature:

Johann Martin Usteri, Gerold Edlibach’s Chronik (Zürich, 1847). (Edition accessible online)

Zürich, Zentralbibliothek, MS C 1
Zürich, Zentralbibliothek, MS C 1, f.16r

Zürich, Zentralbibliothek, MS C 1, f.16r

The Jahrzeitbuch (anniversary) of Uster is a calendar with entries of deceased on the dates they passed away. A considerable number of entries are accompanied by a coats of arms. This anniversary was probably a compilation of older copies and was made between 1469 and 1473, but also includes later entries.

Weblink: http://www.e-manuscripta.ch

Literature:

Fabrice Burlet, ‘Das Jahrzeitbuch von Uster’ (1473) (no date, online PDF-document, which can be accessed through this link)

16th century

Colmar, Bibliothèque Municipale, 1107 (064)
Colmar, Bibliothèque municipale, 1107 (064), f.8r

Colmar, Bibliothèque municipale, 1107 (064), f.8r

This manuscript dates from the 16th century. It largely consists of coats of arms of noble families with crests, but it also holds a smaller section with coats of arms of cities.

Weblink: http://bvmm.irht.cnrs.fr/

Eichstätt, Universitätsbibliothek Eichstätt-Ingolstadt, Cod. st 703

Eichstätt, Universitätsbibliothek Eichstätt-Ingolstadt, Cod. st 703, f. 1r

This version of the Eichstätter Wappenbuch was comprised after 1518.

Weblink: urn:nbn:de:bvb:824-cod-st-703-4

Literature:

Keller, Karl Heinz: Die mittelalterlichen Handschriften der Universitätsbibliothek Eichstätt 4, Wiesbaden 2017.

Freiburg i. Br., UB, Hs. 15
Freiburg, UB, Hs. 15. f.2v

Freiburg, UB, Hs. 15. f.2v

The Chronicle of Reichenau, written by chaplain Gallus Öhem, starts with an armorial. The armorial presents the abbots of the abbey from its establishment to the time of witing, other clergymen and arms of nobles. The manuscript dates from the early 16th century.

Weblink: http://dl.ub.uni-freiburg.de/

Literature:

Harald Drös, Das Wappenbuch des Gallus Öhem (Sigmaringen, 1994).

Graz, UB, ms.2211
Graz, UB, ms. 2211 f.7v

Graz, UB, ms. 2211 f.7v

This armorial was produced in the 1530s. It contains coats of arms of families in Steiermark, a region in modern-day Austria. Later, some new entries and additions were made.

Weblink: http://143.50.26.142/digbib/handschriften/

Literature:

Veronika Drescher, Selbstverständnis und Repräsentation des steirischen Adels im Spätmittelalter: Die Wappenhandschrift Ms.2211 der Universitätsbibliothek Graz (Master thesis. Accessible online).

Heidelberg, UB, 82 A 10094 RES
Heidelberg, UB, 82 A 10094 RES, p.5

Heidelberg, UB, 82 A 10094 RES, p.5

This armorial was made by Virgil Solis, an artist from Nürnberg, in 1555. It is hierarchally structured, containing coats of arms of kings, dukes, counts etc., plus the quaternions and coats of arms of cardinals and bishops.

Weblink: http://katalog.ub.uni-heidelberg.de

Lisbon, Arquivo nacional da Torre do Tombo, Cartório da Nobreza, liv. 19
Lisbon, Arquivo nacional da Torre do Tombo, Cartório da Nobreza, liv. 19, f.59v

Lisbon, Arquivo nacional da Torre do Tombo, Cartório da Nobreza, liv. 19, f.59v

This luxurious Portuguese armorial is titled Livro do Armeiro-Mor. It was made in 1509, by the herald João do Cró and presents among others coats of arms of European kings and Portuguese nobility.

Weblink: http://digitarq.arquivos.pt/

München, BSB, cod. icon. 308
München, BSB, cod. icon. 308, f.29r

München, BSB, cod. icon. 308, f.29r

This manuscript presents a large number of coats of arms, around 1300, with an emphasis on southern Germany. According to the, probably not original, title inscription, it was made by the painter Nikolaus Bertschi (ca. 1480-1542) in Augsburg in 1515. The work was continued by others in the same and subsequent centuries.

Weblink: http://daten.digitale-sammlungen.de/

Literature:

Catalogue description online

München, BSB, cod. icon. 312 b

München, BSB, cod. icon. 312 b. f.28v

The Geschlechterbuch der Stadt Augsburg presents a collection of 133 coats of arms of noble and ennobled Augsburg families. This handwritten and preciously coloured version of the second, extended print edition of 1550 was made by the Augsburg chronicler Paul Hektor Mair (1517-1579) between 1548 and 1550 expressly for Johann Jakob Fugger (1516-1575) .

Weblink: http://daten.digitale-sammlungen.de/

Literature:

Catalogue description online

München, BSB, cgm 1952
München, BSB, cgm, 1952, f.14r

München, BSB, cgm, 1952, f.14r

This work is titled the Hofkleiderbuch of dukes William IV and Albert V, but contains more than that: a variety of coats of arms, from imaginary arms to southern German nobles and series of princes.  It stems from Bavaria and was made in the 16th century.

Weblink: http://daten.digitale-sammlungen.de/

München, BSB, cgm 2822
München, BSB, cgm 2822, f.5v

München, BSB, cgm 2822, f.5v

This 16th-century manuscript displays portraits and coats of arms of Bavarian and Guelph princes. The second part (with the Guelph princes) shows large similarities with the manuscript Stuttgart, Württembergische Landesbibliothek, cod. hist. qt. 584, which is also in the Digitised Armorials list.

Weblink: http://daten.digitale-sammlungen.de/

München, BSB, cgm 9460
München, BSB, cgm 9460, p.7

München, BSB, cgm 9460, p.7

This is the family book of the prominent Fugger family from Augsburg. Hans Jakob Fugger commissioned the work. It was written by the historian Clemens Jäger and produced in the workshop of Jörg Breus the Younger between 1542 and 1548. The manuscript holds a large amount of coats of arms of the Fugger family.

Weblink: http://daten.digitale-sammlungen.de

Literature:

Gregor Rohmann, Das Ehrenbuch der Fugger (Augburg, 2004)

Claudia Bubenik, Die Fugger im Bild. Bayerische Staatsbibliothek; Schatzkammerausstellung… (Darmstadt, 2010)

Nancy, Bibliothèque Mediathèque, Ms 1727
Nancy, Bibliothèque Mediathèque, MS 1727 f.1v

Nancy, Bibliothèque Mediathèque, MS 1727 f.1v

This armorial, commonly known as Armorial de Nicolas de Lutzelbourg, has been made in the 16th century for Nicolas de Lutzelbourg (ca. 1485-1547), lord of Fléville. The coats of arms of many nobles from medieval Western Europe are presented, categorized into so called ‘marches d´armes’ or provinces of arms.

Weblink: http://bmn-renaissance.nancy.fr/

 Literature:

Steen Clemmensen, An introduction to and blazons of Armorial dit de Nicolas de Lutzelbourg (Farum 2013) (accessible online)

New Haven, Yale University Library, Beinecke ms. 648
Yale, Beinecke, ms. 648, f.8v

New Haven, Yale University Library, Beinecke ms. 648, f.8v

The manuscript Beinecke, ms. 648 was in the possession and partly produced by the scribe Jean Faucquet. The collection of coats of arms is part of a herold’s compendium. It was probably made around 1500. For more information on the manuscritpt see here, for more information about Faucquet see here.

Weblink: http://brbl-dl.library.yale.edu

Literature:

Torsten Hiltmann, Spätmittelalterliche Heroldskompendien. Referenzen adeliger Wissenskultur in Zeiten gesellschaftlichen Wandels (München, 2011) pp. 158-163.

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 90
Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 90

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 90

This piece of parchment from the early 16th century describes the entries of the Hungarian Queen Anne de Foix in Italy in 1502. The description is accompanied by small collections of coats of arms. The maker of the manuscript was Pierre Choque. Unfortunately, only a black/white scan is available.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 5232

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 5232, f. 81r

This 16th-century French armorial in a paper manuscript presents a large collection of french coats of arms arranged by territories.

Weblink: https://gallica.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/btv1b530239472/f1.item

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 5240
Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 5240, f.13v

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 5240, f.13v

This paper manuscript with large collections of coats of arms was probably made during the reign of Francois I of France (1515-1547)

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 18649
Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 18649, f.1r

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 18649, f.1r

This armorial in a parchment manuscript was probably made in Lorraine in the first half of the 16th century.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 18982

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 18982, f. 6r

This 16th-century French armorial displays full page coats of arms of members of the house of Savoie and their alliances.

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 25183
Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 25183, f.20r

Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 25183, f.20r

This 16th-century French armorial in a paper manuscript presents nobles of France under the reign of Francois I of France (1515-1547).

Weblink: http://gallica.bnf.fr/

Philadelphia, Free Library of Philadelphia, Lewis E 17

Philadelphia, Free Library of Philadelphia, Lewis E 17, f. 2r

This 16th-century manuscript contains a large armorial displaying Austrian and Bavarian nobles.

Weblink: http://openn.library.upenn.edu/

Stuttgart, Württembergische Landesbibliothek, cod. hist. qt. 420
Stuttgart, Württembergische Landesbibliothek, Handschrift Cod. hist. qt. 420, f.2v

Stuttgart, Württembergische Landesbibliothek, Handschrift Cod. hist. qt. 420, f.2v

This short book (8 folios), titled Geschlechtsregister der fränkischen Familie von Rossaw, presents coats of arms of the German Rossaw family.

Weblink: http://digital.wlb-stuttgart.de/

Stuttgart, Württembergische Landesbibliothek, cod. hist. qt. 584
Stuttgart, Württembergische LB, cod. hist. qt. 584, f.13r

Stuttgart, Württembergische LB, cod. hist. qt. 584, f.13r

This luxurious manuscript is usually called the Weingartner Stifterbüchlein. It contains a history of the Guelph family (and a bit of the Staufer), as the founders of the Weingarten monastery in southern Germany, illustrated by large portraits with coats of arms. The manuscript was probably produced around 1510.

Weblink: http://digital.wlb-stuttgart.de/

Literature:

Hans Ulrich Rudolf, ‘Kostbare Buchmalerei Als Politisches Manifest: Das Weingartener ‘Stifterbüchlein’’, Im Oberland 19 (2008) pp. 11–19.

Toulouse, Bibliothèque Municipale, ms.798
Toulouse, BM, ms.798, f.11r

Toulouse, BM, ms.798, f.11r

This manuscript from the 16th century holds a Catalan armorial. It contains a heraldic part focusing on charges and ordinaries, and sections with coats of arms of among others the Nine Worthies, Christian Kings, and high nobles.

Weblink:

http://numerique.bibliotheque.toulouse.fr/

Weimar, Herzogin Anna Amalia Bibliothek, Fol. 220
Weimar, Herzogin Anna Amalia Bibliothek, Fol. 220, f.3r

Weimar, Herzogin Anna Amalia Bibliothek, Fol. 220, f.3r

This manuscript is one of the several armorials made by Vigil Raber from Southern Tirol. He was a 16th century painter, collector of theater pieces and, as he declared himself in a text in this armorial, a “liebhaber und erkundiger der wappen” (online transcription here). The same text dates this manuscript on 1548 and Vigil stated that for his armorial he copied coats of arms of five armorials of the Bruderschaft St. Christoph auf dem Arlberg (of which only three remain, see the digitized copies in this list).

Weblink: There are two sites where you can see the digitised manuscripts

http://ora-web.swkk.de/

http://bilderserver.at/

Literature:

Harwick W. Arch, Vigil Rabers Sterzinger Wappenbuchl, Nearchos. Beiheft 5 (1999) (Attention, this is not an edition of this manuscript, but of the Sterzinger manuscript by Vigil Raber, which is however quite similar to this one and to which Arch also refers in this text. Available online.)

Wien, Kunsthistorisches Museum, KK 5333
Wien, Kunsthistorisches Museum, KK 5333

Wien, Kunsthistorisches Museum, KK 5333

The Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna houses a roll of arms, depicting 39 European kings and dukes. They are presented with a full portrait and with their coats of arms. The roll dates from 1512/1513 and was made in Jörg Kölderers workshop.

Weblink: http://bilddatenbank.khm.at/

Wolfenbüttel, Herzog August Bibl., Cod. Guelf. 120 Extrav.
Wolfenbüttel, Herzog August Bibl., 120 Extrav., f.165v

Wolfenbüttel, Herzog August Bibl., 120 Extrav., f.165v

Hermann Botes Schichtbuch, produced in the 1510s, contains a rarely researched elaborate armorial in the last section of the manuscript. The armorial holds a wide range of coats of arms, including those of the Hanse Kontors, cities that were members of the Hanseatic League, Saxonian nobles and inhabitants of Braunschweig, where the armorial was very probably produced. Furthermore, the manuscript describes some legends on the development of Saxonian coats of arms, accompanied by the coats of arms in question. For more information, see the blogpost on this armorial.

Weblink: http://diglib.hab.de

Literature:

Herbert Blume, ‘Das Schichtbuch. Am Beispiel des Aufruhrs wegen zweifacher Steuer’ in: idem, Hermann Bote. Braunschweiger Stadtschrieber und Literat. Studien zu seinem Leben und Werk (Bielefeld, 2009) pp. 53-106.

Ludwig Hänselmann, ‘Das Schichtbuch. 1514.’ in: Die Chroniken Der Niedersächsischen Städte. Braunschweig. 2 (Leipzig, 1880) pp. 269–532. (Edition, Accessible online)

Elmar Hofman, “A treasure hidden in plain sight. The armorial behind the Schichtbuch,” in Heraldica Nova, 25/11/2015, http://heraldica.hypotheses.org/3960

Elmar Hofman, ‘Armorials behind the Schichtbuch. A material and visual exploration’, will appear in the conference proceedings of “500 Jahre Schichtbuch. Aspekte und Perspektiven der Bote Forschung”.

Zaragoza, Archivo Histórico Provincial de Zaragoza, P, 002105/000001
Zaragoza, Archivo Histórico Provincial de Zaragoza, P, 002105/000001, f.36r

Zaragoza, Archivo Histórico Provincial de Zaragoza, P, 002105/000001, f.36r

This Spanish armorial, called Armorial de los condes de Argillo, is dated on 1578. It presents coats of arms of among others European kings and Castilian nobles.

Weblink:

http://bibliotecavirtual.aragon.es/



Cite this blog post
Heraldica Nova (2014, January 1). Digitised Armorials. Heraldica Nova. Retrieved March 18, 2024, from https://doi.org/10.58079/phua

Heraldica Nova

This is the account of the Heraldica Nova editorial team.

47 Responses

  1. Some minor corrections and comments concerning the “Armorial Le Breton”:

    1. The online presentation is incomplete, and as the presentation itself is not very clear about this fact, perhaps one should mention it here to avoid confusion.

    2. The manuscript is sometimes referred to by folio numbers, and sometimes by page numbers. Given that there are no medieval folio numbers in the manuscript (at least not legible ones) and that the edition by de Boos et al. used page numbers too, it is probably best to always use page numbers.

    3. In any case, the image used in the catalogue (“fo.1r”) clearly is not a recto.

    4. The manuscript has two call numbers (“AE I 25, no. 6” and “MM 684”) because it is part of two separate collections; it is best to refer to it, as the catalogue does, by both call numbers.

    atb Christof

  2. Ein Wappenbuch (laut Katalog “15. Jh.”, aber mindestens im zweiten Teil wohl doch 16. Jh.):

    Wolfenbüttel, Herzog August Bibliothek, Cod. Guelf. 116 Blank. https://diglib.hab.de/?db=mss&list=ms&id=116-blank

    Handschriftenbeschreibung (Butzmann 1966) hier http://bilder.manuscripta-mediaevalia.de/hs//katalogseiten/HSK0079_b121_JPG.htm

    Bei Butzmann nicht erwähnt sind drei Seiten mit Wappen von Kardinälen, die insofern besonders interessant sind, als hier der mindestens indirekte Einfluss des Wappenbuchs der Richental-Chronik besonders deutlich wird (aber auch schon die recht zahlreichen nichtwestlichen und fiktiven Wappen in den Abschnitten mit Wappen von Kaiser- und Königreichen enthalten zahlreiche Hinweise).

  3. Zwei Wappenbücher aus der Badischen Landesbibliothek:

    Das sog. Donaueschinger Wappenbuch (saec. XV; um 1460 laut BLB):
    Karlsruhe, Badische Landesbibliothek, Donaueschingen 496. https://digital.blb-karlsruhe.de/urn/urn:nbn:de:bsz:31-134228

    Eine (als “G” bekannte) Abschrift der Richental-Chronik (ca. 1470 laut BLB) mit einem im Vergleich zu den anderen Abschriften besonders ausführlichen Wappenbuch-Teil:
    Karlsruhe, Badische Landesbibliothek, St. Georgen 63. https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:bsz:31-37921

  4. Christof Rolker says:

    Die Brüsseler Handschrift des “Armorial Lyncenich” ist ebenfalls digitalisiert:

    Bruxelles, Bibliothèque royale de Belgique, II.6567. https://opac.kbr.be/LIBRARY/doc/SYRACUSE/18334024

    Eine heraldische Edition hat, einmal mehr, Steen Clemmensen vorgelegt:

    Steen Clemmensen, The Lyncenich Armorial, 2016. https://www.armorial.dk/french/Lyncenich.pdf

  5. Christof Rolker says:

    Das Eichstätter Wappenbuch (saec. XVex) ist ebenfalls online:

    Eichstätt, Universitätsbibliothek Eichstätt-Ingolstadt, Cod. st 704.
    https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:bvb:824-cod-st-704-0

    Es ist bei von Berchem et al erwähnt, aber sonst kenne ich keine Literatur zur Handschrift außer dem Bibliothekskatalog.

  6. Glynnis Hollindale says:

    I do not seem to be able to find usable links to parts 6 and 7 of the Armorial de os condes Argillo, on their home website http://bibliotecavirtual.aragon.es/. I successfully followed the link in the last item in your current list of armorials and downloaded the other parts. The quality of the scans is astonishing! Please advise if I have failed to see something important as I do not read Spanish and have to depend on Google translate.

  7. Christof Rolker says:

    Noch eine Ergänzung: Auch die einzige Handschrift des “Wappenbuch Gelre” (saec. XIV/XV) ist inzwischen online:
    Bruxelles, KBR, Ms 15652-56
    https://opac.kbr.be/LIBRARY/doc/SYRACUSE/16995818

  8. Bruno Faidutti says:

    I’m desperately trying to fond from what Wappenbuch comes this fun unicorn.
    It’s a unicorn, and it looks lik the arems of Schondorf am Ammersee, so it’s very probably Bavarian. I think I’ve brwsed everything on the BsB unsuccessfully, so if someone can help !

  9. Robert Mrozowski says:

    Wien, Kunsthistorisches Museum, KK 5333
    niestety link nie działa

    • Melanie Althage says:

      Dear Robert Mrozowski,
      thank you very much for pointing out the broken link. I have just taken care of it, now “Wien, Kunsthistorisches Museum, KK 5333” should be accessible again.
      Kind regards
      Melanie Althage

  10. Klaas Padberg Evenboer says:

    The armorial Lewis E 17, Free Library of Philadelphia, from the 16th century contains many arms of Austrian and Bavarian nobles but also arms from Brabant, Holland and North Rhine. Probably it was made in Burgundy, then most arms can be found in Burgundian armorials.

    A modern pastedown at the front reads: From the Count of Leiders/Leiden. From the Monastery of Attel, near Wasserburg on the Inn, in Bavaria.
    On fol. 1r there is a portrait of Emperor Maximilian.

    The last known count of Leiden was Jan II van Wassenaer (1483-1523). He was a count in rank as burgrave of Leiden.
    Jan II van Wassenaer (1483-1523) was a famous warlord in the service of the Emperors Maximilian and Charles V. He fought in the Battle of Pavia (1509) where he fractured his jaw. The Emperor Maximilian visited him personally at his sickbed.
    He received a knighthood in the Order of the Golden Fleece in 1516 and was appointed stadholder of Friesland. In 1520 he was present at the coronation of Charles V.

  11. Hello to all,
    I am searching about the coat of arms of the byzantine empire. Before the reign of the latin emperors in Constantinople, we don’t have “good” evidences for the blasons which we used to have.
    I want your opinion, if the latin emperors modify or change the already coat of arms or create a new one, for the first time in Constantinople? What the others kings used to do when they conquer other states, they change the coat of arms of the conquered state or compare the blasons?? (as the Edward III England+France, Aragonia+Sicily, France+Navare)

  12. George A. Trosper says:

    Heralds in the Society for Creative Anachronism have been looking at online armorials for a while. You will probably be interested in
    the searchable list of over a hundred at http://www.yehudaheraldry.com/rolls/index.php/roll_c/rolls,
    and
    the first link, “List of Rolls of Arms”, to a long list at http://www.vikinganswerlady.com/Stars/.

    Incidentally, I found the URL of this article in the discussion at https://www.facebook.com/groups/SCAHeraldryChat/permalink/10156473480624203/. Thank you for your work!

  13. Godfried Croenen says:

    Dear Torsten, Have you thought about including the facsimile edition of the ‘Van den Ersten’ armorial? It is now available online through the UB Düsseldorf (http://digital.ub.uni-duesseldorf.de/content/titleinfo/1076284). I don’t see this armorial mentioned very often, probably because it has been destroyd in the war (at least according to Neubecker) and because the facsimile edition itself is very rare. Best, Godfried

    • Elmar Hofman says:

      Dear Godfried, thank you for your comment. Indeed, the “Van den Ersten” armorial is rarely mentioned in the literature and I am not aware of any detailed discussions on it. This blog applies a critical cultural-historical approach to medieval and early modern heraldry and for this it is crucial to focus on the actual material sources and place these in their contexts. In alignment with this approach, we only include digitizations of medieval and early modern manuscripts in the list. The relation between 19th and 20th century facsimiles and the original manuscripts can be problematic, as Christof Rolker’s showed in his interesting review article on the facsimiles and editions of Conrad Grünenberg’s armorial: Christof Rolker: “Das Wappenbuch des Konrad Grünenberg. Acta et agenda.” Zeitschrift für die Geschichte des Oberrheins 162 (2014): 191–207.

  14. Otfried Krafft says:

    The manuscript quoted here as Paris, BnF, ms. fr. 25240 has in fact another number; it is ms. fr. 25204. The coats of arms in this manuscripts were analyzed by Michel Popoff, L’Ordre du Croissant. Dossier, in: Histoire et généalogie. Annales de généalogie et d’héraldique 37 (1991), pp. 41-59 [I], 38 (1991), pp. 55-64.

    • Elmar Hofman says:

      Thank you, you are absolutely right. I have corrected the ms number and added Popoff’s article

  15. It is difficult to keep abreast of all the armorials being mentioned, digitized, commented and edited – and more so on what they contain and how they are related. Let me just mention a few items, which caught my attention.
    The Vermandois, BnF, fr.2249 was recently edited by Emmanuel de Boos for Leopard d’or, Paris 2015 (rather nicely); BnF, fr.5240 is said to derive from the Berry (BnF, fr.4985); Virgil Solis Wappenbuchlein, Heidelberg UB, 82AQ10094 RES in a nice coloured version, also reprinted in B/W line, is a partial copy of the Richental Constance Council chronicle; For the Lutzelburg, Nancy ms.1727, there is a rudimentary transcription and identification online at http://www.armorial.dk/french/Lutzelbourg.pdf – it has a copy in BnF, fr.23076:2r-141v, which are followed by 2 fragments of lorranian arms. Both are in part derived from the Toison dor / Golden Fleece armorial and the Jean Haraucourt armorial (in Nancy, Musee Lorrain) edited by Jean Christophe Blanchard in Lotharingia 10 (2001) 81-125 – to my knowledge not digitized.

    • Elmar Hofman says:

      Dear Steen, thank you for these elaborations. I have added your edition of Lutzelbourg to the list. If you know of any other digitized armorials, please let us know!

  16. Jon Sneddon says:

    Is there a different or complete version of the Hector Le Breton armorial mentioned above? I am researching Scottish coat of arms, which refer to this armorial regularly. There is even a comparison between this armorial and the Dunvegan Armorial, with numerous Scottish coat of arms. Thanks.

    • Elmar Hofman says:

      Dear Jon, the version of the Breton armorial in this list is the original manuscript. I am not aware of any other copies, but you could check Emmanuel de Boos’s edition to be certain. Good luck with your research on Scottish coats of arms!

  17. GG says:

    Livro do Armeiro-Mor
    Reference code: PT/TT/CR/D-A/001/19
    Date range: 1509 –
    Dimension and support: 1 liv. (161 f.; 403 x 315 mm); perg.

    http://digitarq.arquivos.pt/details?id=4162406

    http://digitarq.arquivos.pt/viewer?id=4162406

    • Elmar Hofman says:

      Thank you for this interesting material! I will include them in the list

  18. GG says:

    Armorial de los condes de Argillo
    bibliotecavirtual.aragon.es/bva/i18n/consulta/registro.cmd?id=1406

  19. marco says:

    Very helpful page, thank you!
    Please correct the dead link to the digital ms Manchester MS 28. This seems to work:
    http://enriqueta.man.ac.uk/luna/servlet/detail/Man4MedievalVC~4~4~802015~137659

    • Elmar Hofman says:

      Dear marco, thank you very much for your comment! I have replaced the dead link for the Manchester MS 28 manuscript

  20. Klaas Padberg Evenboer says:

    The herald’s book of the Order of St. Hubert / Heroldsbuch des Jülischen Hubertusordens, um 1480.
    Krakow, Biblioteka Jagiellońska, Berol. Ms. Germ. Qu. 1479.

    Originally this armorial was in the collection of the Prussian State Library (Preußischen Staatsbibliothek) in Berlin.
    Literature:
    Hans Wegener, Beschreibende Verzeichnisse der Miniaturen-Handschriften der Preußischen Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin, Leipzig 1928. [Text und 2 Abbildungen, u.A. Tafel 6]
    Wilhelm Ewald, Rheinische Heraldik, Düsseldorf 1934, Anm. 200 – S. 214, Beschreibung – S. 169-172, 2 Abbildungen – S. 170.

    After WWII it is part of the collection of the Biblioteka Jagiellońska in Krakow. One can clearly see that the book is damaged by a child’s pencil.

    • Elmar Hofman says:

      Dear Klaas,

      Thank you for your comment. This armorial is already in the list, but your extra references are very welcome.

      With regard to the dating of this manuscript, there are several dates in the armorial. On f.127v one can find the note: “Jn den jaren m iiijc ind lxxx jair ist dit gemagt ouermitz herman von brunchoffen (?) conynck der wappery”, which would indeed imply that the manuscript was made in 1480.

      However, on many places between the coats of arms notes as the following can be found:”Dyt sint iiij aynchen her johans huysvrau van vranckenburch gemaicht inden jaren lxij” (f.58r), which suggests that this entry dates from 1462. There are more entries with different dates in the manuscript, so it was probably continuously used and updated throughout a period of several decades. For more on the dating and for further references see:
      http://archiv.twoday.net/stories/96991398/
      – Leonie Gräfin von Nesselrode, “Neue Erkenntnisse zum Heroldsbuch und Bruderschaftsbuch des jülisch-bergischen Hubertusordens”, Jahrbuch für westdeutsche Landesgeschichte 36 (2010) p.131-162

  21. An important correction to the first item on the list: our library has recently (2008) changed its name to Hendrik Conscience Heritage Library (in Dutch: Erfgoedbibliotheek Hendrik Conscience). The link to the digital version has also changed, it is now which should be a permalink. You can now leaf through the manuscript in our digital platform, or download it in pdf format.

    All the best,
    Steven

  22. Danielle says:

    Dear Heraldic Nova Team,
    As someone currently studying the manuscript Harley 4205, or “Sir Thomas Holme’s Book of Arms,” I noted a few mistakes in your short description.
    I can tell you that, despite the title, it was not written by Sir Thomas Holme. This title comes from Holme’s arms, which can be found on f. i(g)r. Actually, the three parts of the manuscript were likely illustrated by three different hands and there is no evidence to suggest that Holme was one of said hands. As well, you say Holme was Clarenceux King of Arms in the mid-15th century when he was clearly late-15th century (1476-1493). He may have been confused with that of Roger Legh, who held the same position from 1435-1460, and there does exist some evidence that he may have illustrated part of the manuscript.
    Finally, you only mention two parts, when there is a third filled with leaves of single knights.
    Cheers,
    Danielle

    • Elmar Hofman says:

      Dear Danielle,

      Thank you for pointing out these mistakes. I have corrected them right away.

      Kind regards,

      Elmar

    • Dear Danielle, thank you very much for your helpful comments. We will change that in the short description above.
      You seem to have a deeper knowledge of this very interesting manuscript. Would you fancy to write a little blogpost on it? As you know, armorial manuscripts are little studied and often misunderstood. Though often a closer look can be very instructive and reveal insights going far beyond heraldry itself. The Harley 4205 with its three parts seems to be very promising in this perspective. I would be very glad to learn more about this manuscript!
      Torsten

      • Danielle says:

        Hello Torsten,
        I agree with what you have said about Harley 4205 and would be delighted to write a blogpost. Actually, I am currently writing my MA thesis on this manuscript, which will focus not only on its heraldic features but its implications concerning manuscript and digital cultures. As such, I am a little limited on time but would still be able to find some for a blogpost.
        Thanks for the changes, Elmar!
        Cheers,
        Danielle

  23. Elmar Hofman says:

    Dear all,

    I want to thank everybody responding to this list of digitised armorials on the various media. Your comments led to the addition of over 20 armorials in the last few months. Please continue sending us links of digitised medieval armorials. Your hints are very helpful.

    Best wishes,

    The Heraldica Nova Team

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