mascles

Mascles is a heraldic term for a voided lozenge. The singular is mascle; the plural is mascles. A mascle is a diamond-shaped figure with its center removed, usually represented as a ring-like outline in the shape of a diamond. The center is typically circular, creating a distinct void that reveals the underlying field. As a voided charge, the mascle does not carry its own color; the interior is transparent and takes on the tincture of whatever lies behind it in the shield’s design.

In blazon, mascle is used as a charge on the shield and may be placed singly or in multiples across the field. It can appear in any tincture and can be combined with other charges. The mascle is often arranged in rows or patterns, and it may be used to create a repeating motif that contrasts with surrounding charges or fields. A variant known as the double mascle is formed by two mascles linked or interlaced.

Historically, mascles appear in English, French, and broader European heraldry from the medieval period onward. They function as both a decorative geometric motif and a recognizable heraldic symbol that can complement a broad range of armorial designs. While not tied to a single symbolic meaning, the mascle serves as a versatile element in the composition of coats of arms.