Crests

"The flat top of the helm was an obvious place to display an easily recognizable device and the crest was the result. This varied in complexity from a simple bunch of feathers to enormously elaborate recreations of heraldic beasts or symbolic objects, delightfully portrayed in the miniatures from the great collection of German love poetry in the Manesse manuscript. These were probably constructed out of light materials - cloth over a wooden frame, perhaps - and would have been totally impractical for real warfare."

From "Tournaments", Barber & Barker, 1989 Boydell Press

Crests for Chivalric and Equestrian competitors are recommended for competition. To help recreate the pageantry of the event these creations will also be judged. Crests should be of a reasonable size and shape and might reflect some element in your arms or personality; however, your crest does not have to be registered. Please, no stuffed animals or anything blatantly mundane.

Crests will not be used in combat (a cheval or foot), but as they enhance the pageantry of the day, each entrant is encouraged to produce and display an heraldic crest. To be considered for judging, any crest entered MUST conform to the following MINIMUM requirements of 9 inches high, 4 inches wide, 4 inches deep. Any construction material which accomplishes the requirements is acceptable. Entrants are encouraged to exceed these minimums and should look to their own or to medieval heraldry for design ideas. Remember, bigger is better. See Baron Godwyn's crest and letter below as examples and inspiration.

Prizes will be given to the entrant whose crest best pleases the Baron and Baroness of Bjornsborg.

Heraldry at Lysts at Castleton is as important as prowess on the field. Therefore, the entrant whose heraldic display and whose field herald most impresses the Baron and Baroness of Bjornsborg will, at the end of the day, receive special recognition and a prize worthy of such a feat.

Great page on making crests: http://www.randyasplund.com/browse/medieval/crest.html

Crests are from "Arms and Uniforms: The Age of Chivalry", Lilian and Fred Funcken, Ward Lock Limited, London, 1980