VAIR: Blue and white bell-shaped objects; said to be the skin of an animal of the weasel kind called Varus which was once used for the lining of military coats (fr. vairé); generally written vairy when definite tinctures are named; when no tinctures mentioned one assumes argent and azure. As with all heraldic furs the Vair is a mark of dignity.

VANE: A plate placed on a spindle, at the top of a spire, for the purpose of showing by its turning and direction, which way the wind blows; symbol of promise, guidance and safety.

VASE (urn): The Vase or Urn is a symbol for the receptacle of the spirit (ashes of the dead), and since a vase may also contain living elements such as flowers, it may symbolize nature's bounty awaiting fulfilment. The vessel generally denotes openness, and validity. Historically, ceremonial urns containing consecrated elements such as oils, wine, etc were an intrinsic feature in religious rituals of consecration as well as divination to the gods.

VINE: Usually depicted as a grape vine, this charge symbolizes promise, frolic and bounty. See Grapes.

VIOLIN: In Europe, the violin can be traced back to the 9th century, with its origin possibly in Asia. The violin emerged in its definitive form between 1520 and 1550 in northern Italy. It symbolizes harmony and stability in life, music, contentment and joy. Believed by some to be one of the most perfect instruments ever invented and hence a symbol of perfection.

VULTURE: This unique bird derives its name from the Latin vultur, and although it does not kill its own prey, it is considered a raptor and a predator. It has a magnificent wingspan and an ability to soar effortlessly for great lengths of time. It is one of the most misunderstood birds, and yet it was one of the most powerful and mystical in many cultures. Tutankhamun, the famous Egyptian pharaoh, displayed the Vulture's head and the risen snake (cobra) as the symbols of his ruler-ship. The first letter of the Egyptian alphabet is represented by the Vulture symbol and is pronounced "ah". The Vulture is a very powerful emblem and is a promise that all hardship was temporary and necessary for a higher purpose. In Greek mythology, the Vulture is the descendant of the Griffin, and was the symbol of heaven and earth, spirit and matter, good and evil, a guardian and an avenger. The Greek god Aries, son of Zeus and Hera and the god of war used the Vulture as his bird symbol. The Vulture is the avenger of nature spirits. Ancient Assyrians believed the Vulture or griffin was the Angel of Death, and the union between the day and night. The Egyptian Goddess Maat is usually depicted carrying a Vulture and was considered the personification of the order of the world.

Heraldry Symbolism Library by Armorial Gold Heraldry Services is provided as a free resource tool for Heraldry enthusiasts. The Heraldry Symbolism Library and the information contained therein, has been researched through original manuscripts and Armorial Gold’s own sources. The Heraldry Symbolism Library is provided as a free resource tool for Heraldry enthusiasts. Reproduction in any form is prohibited.