Escarteled

/ˌɛskɑɹˈtɛld/ adjective

Definition

In heraldry, divided into four equal sections (quartered), often showing multiple coats of arms combined on one shield.

Etymology

From French 'écartelé,' meaning quartered or divided into four parts, derived from 'quart' (quarter). Used in heraldic terminology since medieval times.

Kelly Says

Escarteled shields are like medieval genealogies in picture form—a knight's shield could show all four grandparents' families at once, telling the story of their lineage and alliances in one glance.

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