Passants

Passants are a common heraldic pose used to depict animals or other creatures in a walking stance. In this disposition, the figure is shown as if it is taking a step, with one forepaw raised off the ground. The head is typically shown in profile, and the raised paw is usually the dexter (the right forepaw from the bearer’s point of view, appearing on the viewer’s left). The tail generally trails behind along the body’s line.

A standard variant is the passant guardant, in which the creature walks but its head is turned toward the viewer, giving the impression that it is looking outward. By contrast, a simple passant presents the head in profile without the forward gaze. Passants are one of several heraldic attitudes used to describe the pose of beasts, other common postures being rampant (rearing on hind legs), statant (standing with all paws on the ground), sejant (sitting), and courant (running).

The term passant derives from the French word passer, meaning to pass or go by, reflecting the motion conveyed in the pose. In blazon, the position is specified for accuracy, and the tincture (color) of the creature is stated separately, so the pose communicates form rather than color.

Usage and significance: Passants are widespread in European heraldry and appear on coats of arms, crests, and insignia. They are used for a variety of beasts, including lions and other creatures, to symbolize movement, bearing, or presence. While a staple of traditional heraldic imagery, passants continue to appear in modern heraldry and related graphic designs.