Banner of St. Denis

By Crusader1307

Sometimes described as a variant of the previously discussed French Oriflamme Banner, The Banner of St. Denis was an iconic flag of The Hundred Year War between France and England (1227 AD-1445 AD). The Banner (a swallowtail Pennant by construction), was designed at The Abbey of St. Denis (France). Legend states that it was originally a White Pennant, dipped in the blood of a martyred St. Denis (2nd Century AD). The Red overall Field represented ''No Quarter'' to any English Soldiers (when raised). It was because of this, the mere sight of The St. Denis Banner was to strike fear into the heart of an Enemy Soldier. First recorded in battle (11th Century), it was last flown at Agincourt (1415). When not in active use, The Banner was said to have been stored inside The Tomb of St. Denis. While no official record exists of the eventual fate of The St. Denis Banner, some cite it waits inside his Tomb for when France once again needs it. According to Period documentation and drawings, The Banner was 15-feet long and an Orange-Red overall color. Closest to The Hoist, was the name of ''St. Denis'' spelled out in large Golden lettering. Towards the Fly of The Banner (swallowtailed), a series of (4) 8-pointed Stars were placed (5 on the Upper extension and 6 on the Lower). This is linked to the 10 Provence's of The Kingdom of France.