Cap of Maintenance

By Crusader1307

In Heraldry, the image of a ''Cap of Maintenance'' was (and is) - meant to confer a specialized title or bestowment to a Noble. This was granted only by a Monarch. The design of the Cap is similiar to the Commoner ''Bycocket'' Hat of the 13th Century AD (previously discussed). A raised red ermine front (medium peaked), runs rearward towards the neck, and tapers radically to an ending point (normally in white fir). Depending on the bestowment, various types of embellishments can also be featured.

The ''Cap of Maintenance'' was also bestowed upon Monarchs (by virtue of position), and was born before a Monarch when entering England's Parliament (beginning in the late 14th Century AD and forward). Although variants exist, a true ''Cap'' must still maintain it's tapered rear design. In usage on Noble Crests, the addition would be attached to the image of The Helm (Helmet) - a common fixture for ''Knightly'' Families. In view, The Cap conveys a very ''special relationship with a Monarchy.