About this Study Set
This study set covers Heraldry through
20 practice questions.
A rigorous examination of the terminology, history, and technical components of European heraldry. Every question includes the correct answer so you can learn as you go — pick any format above to get started.
Questions & Answers
Browse all 20 questions from the
Advanced Studies in Heraldic Science study set below.
Each question shows the correct answer — select a study format above to practice interactively.
1
In heraldry, what is the technical term for the background color of a shield?
-
A
Field
-
B
Base
-
C
Chief
-
D
Charge
2
Which of the following is considered one of the two 'metals' used in the tinctures of heraldry?
-
A
Gules
-
B
Azure
-
C
Or
-
D
Sable
3
What is the rule of 'tincture' in classical heraldry regarding the placement of colors?
-
A
Metal must never be placed on metal
-
B
Color must never be placed on metal
-
C
Color must never be placed on color
-
D
Metals may be placed on metals if charged
4
A 'bordure' in heraldry describes which specific design element?
-
A
A horizontal stripe across the middle
-
B
A border around the edge of the shield
-
C
A diagonal band from dexter chief to sinister base
-
D
A small shield placed in the center of the main shield
5
Which term describes a shield divided into four equal quarters?
-
A
Party per pale
-
B
Quarterly
-
C
Tierced in fess
-
D
Gyronny
6
In the 'blazon' of a coat of arms, which side is referred to as 'dexter'?
-
A
The viewer's right
-
B
The top
-
C
The bottom
-
D
The wearer's right
7
What is a 'cadency mark' used to indicate in a family coat of arms?
-
A
The rank of the knight
-
B
The number of battles fought
-
C
The relative seniority of a son
-
D
The location of the fiefdom
8
Which animal is traditionally depicted 'rampant' when standing on one hind leg with both forepaws raised?
-
A
Lion
-
B
Eagle
-
C
Boar
-
D
Stag
9
What is the heraldic term for a chevron that has been inverted?
-
A
Chevronel
-
B
Chevron inverted
-
C
Chevronny
-
D
Pall
10
An 'escutcheon of pretence' is used to signify what historical event in genealogy?
-
A
The inheritance of an heiress's arms
-
B
The conquest of a foreign land
-
C
The knighting of a commoner
-
D
The formation of a guild
11
Which of the following is an example of a 'fur' tincture?
-
A
Ermine
-
B
Vert
-
C
Purpure
-
D
Argent
12
The heraldic 'fess' is characterized by which orientation?
-
A
A vertical stripe
-
B
A diagonal line
-
C
A horizontal stripe
-
D
A circular emblem
13
What does the heraldic term 'displayed' specifically describe regarding an eagle?
-
A
Wings spread and facing forward
-
B
Perched on a branch
-
C
Head turned to the side
-
D
Claws holding a sword
14
In heraldic terminology, what is a 'torse'?
-
A
A helmet crest
-
B
A wreath of twisted silk
-
C
A decorative banner
-
D
A clasp for a cloak
15
Which of these describes a 'saltire'?
-
A
A cross with pointed ends
-
B
A diagonal cross in the shape of an X
-
C
A square border
-
D
A series of wavy lines
16
What is the 'mantling' in a full heraldic achievement?
-
A
The animal supporters
-
B
The ornamental foliage draping the helmet
-
C
The motto at the base
-
D
The crown atop the crest
17
The 'chief' is an ordinary that occupies which position on the shield?
-
A
The bottom third
-
B
The diagonal center
-
C
The top third
-
D
The right vertical third
18
Which of these terms describes a shield divided vertically into two equal parts?
-
A
Per pale
-
B
Per fess
-
C
Per bend
-
D
Per chevron
19
In blazonry, what does the term 'proper' denote?
-
A
The arms are of royal origin
-
B
The charge is depicted in its natural colors
-
C
The coat of arms is ancient
-
D
The crest is missing
20
What is an 'athelings' coronet in heraldry?
-
A
A specific rank of duke
-
B
A royal insignia of early Anglo-Saxon nobility
-
C
A ecclesiastical ornament
-
D
The mark of a bastard line
