Våbenskjold

Våbenskjold is the Danish term for a coat of arms in heraldry. It refers to the shield that bears heraldic signs used to identify a person, family, municipality, or organization. The word combines våben (arms) and skjold (shield). In Danish heraldry, the våbenskjold is the central element of an heraldic achievement and is often accompanied by a crest, supporters, and a motto on a scroll.

A våbenskjold consists of a field (the background) that may be plain or divided into sections and carries charges (symbols such as animals, objects, or geometric figures). The colors and metals (tinctures) follow traditional heraldic rules, especially contrast between colors and metals. The arrangement may be simple or divided (for example, per pale or quarterly). The chosen charges and colors are used to convey lineage, property, alliances, or occupations, contributing to a family’s or organization’s identity.

Historically, Danish heraldry developed in the medieval period among the nobility and later spread to cities, religious orders, and royal institutions. Over time, arms continued to be created and used by noble and non-noble entities alike, and are often recorded in armorial collections or maintained through heraldic conventions. In contemporary Denmark, the våbenskjold remains a living tradition, used by individuals, families, municipalities, universities, and various organizations to symbolize identity and heritage.

See also: Coat of arms; Heraldry; Danish heraldry.