A tortoise passant, is gradient.
The Human Figure and its Parts
Are charges frequently to be met with. In blazoning an entire figure, its position should be first stated; and then whether it be habited or naked.
A head may be borne either affrontée or in profile; and may be couped or erased. It is usually represented with a wreath of leaves, or twisted silk bound around the temples; in which case it is said to be wreathed.
An arm encased in amour is vambraced. Thus Fig. 125 would be blazoned; Argent; a dexter arm, embowed, vambraced, ppr.[1] The hand is not supposed to be gauntleted unless so specified.
In blazoning a hand it is necessary to state whether it be the dexter or sinister; and if clenched or appaumée (open). Fig. 126 is Argent; a sinister hand, couped, erect, appaumée, gules. This charge, borne on an inescutcheon or canton, is the badge of all Baronets of the United Kingdom; and is called the Badge of Ulster.
The leg, thigh, and heart are the other parts of the body which are generally blazoned as charges.
- ↑ If the hand were turned towards the sinister side, it would be counter-embowed.
