Christina Montgomery, Award of Arms, 2013

In the name of the celestial and indivisible Lady Ealdormere, Nigel and Adrielle, by favour of His Majesty’s strength of arms, august Monarchs of the Northlands. Although recognition of the worth of Our subjects may be done by others, it is, however, the duty of Our imperial authority to royally acknowledge worthy people lest there be any doubt of their value to the Crown. Be it known, therefore, to the present age and to future generations of Our subjects, that We, aided by the grace of Lady Ealdormere who scattered her secret heart among the people of the north, in the presence of many of the members of Our royal court, have called before us Christina Montgomery. This gentle is well known and loved by the people of her barony, who have sent us many missives extolling her skill in the culinary arts, her cheerful attitude and constant service. Lest these acts of honour and glory of our most beloved Christina Montgomery may in any way be diminished, We would bestow on her an Award of Arms. In order that this Our imperial decree may, for all ages, remain valid and unshaken, we have ordered the present charter to be written and to be sealed with the impress of our seal.

Done on the Feast Day of St, Andrew, in Our Canton of Bryniau Tywynnog, at Wassail, Anno Borealis forty-eight.

By THLaird Colyne Stewart, based on The Establishment of the Duchy of Austria;
September 17, 1156. (Doeberl, iv. p. 88.)

Joffr Rödson, Award of Arms, 2013

In the days when Nigel was King and Adrielle was Queen, it once happened that an armourer came before them and greeted them. And the king and queen received him well and asked him his name. The man said he was called Joffr Rödson, son of Röd. He asked if he could stay awhile among the retainers. The king and queen granted him that and assigned him a very worthy seat. Joffr was pleasant and polite and well liked by all. He worked diligently on the growth of the king and queen’s lands, and they were both well pleased with him.

At the end of the year, when gathering for a yule celebration, Nigel and Adrielle held a court and called Joffr Rödson before them, and gave him an arm ring and the right to call himself a lord of the people.

And Nigel’s skalds took note that this occurred on the thirtieth day of November, in the Canton of Bryniau Tywynnog, at Wassail, in the forty-eighth year of the society.

By THLaird Colyne Stewart, based on The Tale of Toki Tokason, 13^th or 14^th century, trans. Peter Tunstall, 2005.

Wulfric of the Black Wood, Award of Arms, 2013

Armour is a boon to all fighting men;

            it saves the body from harm.

Riding seems easy to every warrior while he is indoors

and very courageous to him who traverses the high-roads
to far off practices.

The sword is extremely sharp,

            suited to righteous purpose.

Generosity brings credit and honour, which support one's dignity;

it furnishes help and subsistence
to all broken men who are devoid of aught else.

Eagerness is infectious,

            it is easily caught by all who see it.

The Black Wood is a home,

            to a man who encompasses all these points.

            Wulfric by name, a mighty man.

Hlaford is a title, now held by him,

            a lord of the land.

Nigel is a King,

Adrielle is a Queen,

            who give him this boon,

            at Wassail, in Bryniau Tywynnog,

            on the last of November,

            in the forty-eighth year of the land.

By THLaird Colyne Stewart, based on The Anglo-Saxon Rune Poem, 8^th or 9^th century, http://www.ragweedforge.com/rpae.html

Ieuan ap Gwilym, Award of Arms, 2013

Let people present and future know that We, Nigel MacFarlane and Adrielle Kerrec, have given, bestowed, and by this charter confirmed, to Ieuan ap Gwilym, an Award of Arms and the right to bear such arms as he may design in consultation with our heralds and pursuivants. This is done in recognition of his service as both pursuivant and deputy seneschal, his courteous manner, and his aid at events. In testimony of which We have appended Our seal to this present charter. These are witnesses: Baron Penda, Baroness Sibylla. Given at Bryniau Tywynnog at Wassail on Saturday on the feast of St. Andrew in the 1^st year of the reign of Nigel II and Adrielle II and the forty-eighth year of the society.

By THLaird Colyne Stewart, based on an English Land Grant, 1422.

http://www.bibliographics.com/YORK/YORK-DOCS.htm

Wulfwynn of the Blackwood, Award of Arms, 2013

Wulfwynn of the Blackwood             throwing axen weapons

Loosing arrows swiftly           longing for the shieldwall

Sewer of garb and clothing                 seamstress of much skill

Naelbinder and greeter           No less than a treasure

Adrielle and Nigel      address her at Wassail

Hail her as a Hlaefdige           In Bryniau hall

On loved day of Andrew       in late Blót-mónaþ

Forty-eighth year        of our fine fellowship.

By THLaird Colyne Stewart, written in the style of an Anglo-Saxon poem, following the proper conventions (to the best of my current abilities).

Tamsin Kitto, Award of the Orion, 2013

Many are held             in high esteem

Skald and poet                        foe-render and Viking

But none so high         as those who create

Tamsin Kitto is such a one      whip-corder, weaver,

Binder of naal             Vor knows her work

Called before thrones              knealing artisan

Before Nigel, Konungr           Adrielle, Drottning

Giver of minds-worth             she is bestowed

An Orion is given        with as many strings

As Tamsin has talents             while in Bryniau Tywynnog

At yuletide wassail                 on the last day of Frer-mánuðr

Forty-eight years         since Ymir was rended

And from his bones    was born the world

Words by THLaird Colyne Stewart, done in the style of Old Norse verse.

Beathan MacFinnon, Award of the Orion, 2013

NIGEL and ADRIELLE, by the Grace of Lady Ealdormere, King and Queen of Ealdormere, Earl and Countess of Arrochar, Protectors of the Far North, Wardens of Septentrialis, Ard Ri of Lacus Pentamerus and Lacus Ealdormearc, High Lord and Lady of Ardchreag, &c.

For as much as you, Beathan MacFinnon, are known for the construction of furniture, jewelry, banners, woodworking and calligraphy, and it was witness at the Kingdom Arts and Sciences Faire that you were chosen as the victor of the Queen’s Choice Prize, therefore it is but just and reasonable, that since you work so diligently, you should be rewarded for it. And We, being willing to honour and favour you for the reasons aforesaid: Our will is, that you, Beathan MacFinnon, after showing such expertise in the arts and sciences, be given Our Award of the Orion, and the right to bear the badge of the award without let or hindrance. And by this Our letter: We command Prince Siegfried and Princess Ragni, Our most beloved son and daughter, the Infants, Dukes, Prelates, Marquesses, Great Masters and Military Orders, Priors, Commendaries, our Counsellors, Judges, and other Officers of Justice whatsoever, belonging Courts, and Chancery, and Constables of Castles, Strong Houses, and others; and all Corporations, Bayliffs, Governours, Judges, Commanders, Sea Officers; and the Aldermen, Common Council, Officers, and Good People of all Cities, Lands, and Places in our Kingdoms and Dominions, as such in all respects, and give you all the perquisites and other things belonging and appertaining to the said award; and allow, and cause to be allowed you, all the honours, graces, concessions, prehaminences, prerogatives, immunities, and other things, or any of them which are due to you, by virtue of your achievements. We command our Chancellour, Heralds, and other Officers, to pass, seal, and deliver to you, Our Award, in such form and legal manner, as you shall require or stand in need of. And that none of them presume to do any thing to the contrary, upon pain of our displeasure, and forfeiture of 30 finfarthings for each offence. And We command him, who shall show them this Our Letter, that he summon them to appear before Us at our Court, where we shall then be, within fifteen days after such summons, under the said penalty. Under which same, We also command any Public Notary whatsoever, that he give to him that shows it him, a certificate under his seal, that we may know how our command is obeyed.

GIVEN at Bryniau Tywynnog, on the 30th of November, at Wassail, in the year of our Society, 48.-

Nigel, THE KING, Adrielle, THE QUEEN.

By THLaird Colyne Stewart, based on the Privileges and Prerogatives Granted by Their Catholic Majesties to Christopher Columbus : 1492

Medb ingen Dungaile, Order of the Crucible

(This is a 2-part scroll – text, seal and signatures on the first, devices on the second)

                             

A living tree

Flowering with knowledge and beauty

Whose many branches intertwine

The skills of beadwork, sugarpaste,

Embroidery, sprang and Irish costuming:

Intricacy rooted in research.

She illuminates the paths less travelled

And graces her Kingdom

With teaching and service.

We King Aaron III and Queen Rustique III

Hereby recognize

Medb ingen Dungaile                     (Mav eengen Dungale)

And convey upon her

The Order of the Crucible.

She shall now be known as

The Honourable Lady

And enjoy the Grant of Arms.

Done this 25^th day of June

At the Fourth War of the Trillium

In Our Canton of Ard Chreag

Anno Societatis 43

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Based on the Lindisfarne Gospels, c. 710-725

Gunther Wahlstedt von Bremen, Court Barony

I heard of a good guardsman

Who worsted many foes

Well-girded with iron,

Who scouted the lands

And ran with the boar.

A quarter-master making fast every ship

Who ordered the feasting,

Carried the colours

And counted the cost.

Shields flashed in summer.

Spears on the mountain made

Mortal men flee.

Lethal yet modest,

The bear knew him then.

When wolves woke,

A right royal retainer

Arrayed in rich trappings

Followed the Trillium

And, joyful in battle,

Struck strife in strange lands.

Considered counsel, canny and courageous,

Solace of bow-song at dew-silvered dawn,

Doughty deed-scribe!

Gracious with gold and kindness concealed!

Twenty years have passed,

Steady and strong like oar-strokes.

Sweet song of sword-heart,

Trove of true counsel,

Who can say more?

Hear your King - Aaron, resolute and dauntless.

Hear your Queen - Rustique, whose eyes uncover all.

We have considered.

This great lord stands apart.

Patient and proven, pomp is your due.

We do what is fitting.

Mark the second day of the seventh month

In the forty-sixth year of our Society.

At sunset on Our battlefield,

The Trillium triumphant,

Where Ard Chreag has done Us honour,

The feast hall well furnished,

The honours are distributed.

Noble Gunther Wahlstedt von Bremen -

Wolf-friend and faithful -

We make you a Baron of Our Court.

Scroll by THL Asa Gormsdottir

·          Illumination based on the Sutton Hoo shoulder clasps, Ardagh Chalice and Anglo-Saxon treasure bindings

·          Calligraphy in half-uncial. Some calligraphy based on the Lindisfarne composite

·          Wording based on Anglo Saxon poetry

·          "Ich sol des künicrîches dienstman sîn" means “I will be the Kingdom’s Man”. Translated into Middle High German by Lino da Napoli

Orla O'Shannahan, Award of Arms

Orla dances like the river in the sun

She lightens the burdens of others

And gives the hungry to eat

Her hands flow with gold and silver

Orla o’Shannahan has served in many ways

We note her assistance in the kitchen

The banners and pewter feast tokens

She produced for Winter War, and

Her enthusiasm for dance

For these reasons do We

King Quilliam and Queen Dagmar

Give unto Orla O’Shannahan

An Award of Arms

And all rights and privileges thereto

She will henceforth be known

As Lady Orla O’Shannahan

Done this 7^th day of May

Anno Societatis 45

At Lady Mary 23

In Our Barony of Rising Waters

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Cross carpet and incipit designs based on the Book of Durrow, 7^th C. insular ms.

Hrothgar of the March, Award of Arms

Hrothgar hails from western shores

His hands hold heavy reins with ease

Hosts of men live in his limbs

Dims the prospects of all foes

Boasts the March of Hrothgar’s deeds

Pleases Us to give him gold.

Hrothgar of the March

Has served with dedication and skill

At all manner of events.

He cheerfully takes on any task

And lightens the burdens of others.

For these reasons do We

King Nigel and Queen Adrielle

Give unto Hrothgar of the March

An Award of Arms

And all rights and privileges thereto.

He will henceforth be known

As Lord Hrothgar of the March.

Done this 6^th day of March

Anno Societatis 44

At Winter War

In Our Shire of Trinovantia Nova

Calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Eagle motifs based on 6^th century Saragossa bird-shaped fibula (Spanish, Barbarian)

Calligraphic hand based on the Lindisfarne Gospels (8^th century)

Brennen Suibhne, Award of Arms

Man of the West

The water-runes at the ford

Tell Us of your gifts

Your sword carves silver sigils in the air

Ruddy jewels smoulder in your hands

You labour without stint

Brenne Suibhne has demonstrated

Skill in rapier combat and

In the making of jewellery and leather goods

He serves faithfully at events and demonstrations

For these reasons do We

King Nigel and Queen Adrielle

Give unto Brennen Suibhne

An Award of Arms

And all rights and privileges thereto.

He will henceforth be known

As Lord Brennen Suibhne.

Done this 6^th day of March

Anno Societatis 44

At Winter War

In Our Shire of Trinovantia Nova

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Motifs based on the Staffordshire Hoard, 7^th century Anglo-Saxon metalwork

Calligraphic hand based on the Lindisfarne Gospels (8^th century)

Bera of Bryniau, Award of Arms

Bera of Bryniau                       Gold-girt and smiling

Guardian of needles                Sky-jewel’s prize

Gentle key-holder                    Stranger’s protector

Hearth-maiden harkens           to Yggdrasil’s rain

Etain au Neval                         Iron Forest’s Father

Valfreya, grass-grasp-ed         Strong as swift water

Arm Bera of Bryniau                Ealdormere is her shield

Waes hael the year’s ending   Here in her own land

Warmed this hard season       By Bera’s true heart

A.S. 43 Wassail                       Award of Arms

By THL Asa Gormsdottir

Elder Futhark runes, runestone format

Avelyn of the Hedge, Award of Arms

The many thoughtful deeds

Of Avelyn of the Hedge

Have come to Our ears.

An active member of the Canton of Eoforwic,

Her service to the arts and in children’s activities

Enures to the benefit of all Ealdormere

She illuminates scrolls as gifts for the Kingdom

Her works display talent and beauty

In recognition of her faithful service

We, King Aaron Preslee Worgenson

and Queen Rustique du Sorde

Hereby make unto Avelyn an Award of Arms

She may now style herself

as Lady Avelyn of the Hedge

And enjoy the right to bear arms

Done this thirtieth day of April

Anno Societatis 45

Upon the occasion of Our Coronation

Presented by Our Canton of Eoforwic

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

 Illumination based on Sollested horse collar, Denmark, 10^th century.

Calligraphy in half-uncial script

Aeneas Oakhammer, Order of Thorbjorn’s Hammer

Formidable pillar of the cataract

Black browed, silent and just

May your enemies fall like blades of grass

Before your onslaught of steel

Aeneas Oakhammer has demonstrated

Great skill and long service to Thrown Weapons

We note with gratitude his contributions

As Kingdom Marshall and Iron Companion

To the Barony of Septentria

We, Quilliam King and Dagmar Queen,

Are pleased to induct Aeneas into our

Order of Thorbjorn’s Hammer

He may bear the badge

Gules, a Thor's hammer within a bordure

embattled argent

So that all may know of our pride in him

Done this 24^th day of September

Anno Societatis 46

In our Barony of Rising Waters

Upon the occasion of our Fall Coronation.

Scroll by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Motif based on the Mammen axe, 10^th C., found in Mammen, Denmark.

Special thanks to http://www.jelldragon.com/vik_dispw.htm for their interpretation of the design

Lars Eriksson, Order of Thorbjorn's Hammer

His excellence on the field

Is matched by patient scholarship

An ardent teacher, a long-standing marshal

Our general at Pennsic on the rapier field

Father of the Ealdormere Academy of Defence

The beating heart of fencing in Ealdormere

For his valiant arm and staunch service,

We, King Etain au Naval,

Winter’s might upon the mountain

And Queen Valfreya Greenspear

Joyful hope-bringer

Induct Lars Eriksson into

Our noble Order of Thorbjorn’s Hammer

He has the right to wear the badge of the order:

Gules, a Thor's hammer within a bordure embattled argent

We also give unto him a Grant of Arms

And the right to bear his arms

With the Crest of the Kingdom.

Done this 12^th day of February

Anno Societatis 45

At Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre II

in Our Incipient Canton of Swans Keep

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Motif based on carved bed posts found in the Oseberg ship burial, early 9^th c.

Runes in Elder Futhark

Brand Thorwaldsen, King and Queen's Favour

The circle of service is complete

And We are loath to break it.

Baron Brand Thorwaldsen

Gave overwhelming service to Us both

Over the past year.

He worked constantly

On all aspects of the reign

From writing Our Coronation Ceremony

To lifting and carrying Our Regalia

At every event We attended.

His patience and loyalty was extraordinary

From start to finish.

His ability to provide a calm cool place

For Her Royal Majesty

Was a talent only he could provide

And was much appreciated by

His Royal Majesty.

By reason of this great and steadfast service

We King Roak and Queen Jocea

Hereby bestow on him

The Award of the King’s Favour

AND

The Award of the Queen’s Favour.

Such is the love We bear Our noble subject.

Done by Our hand and seal

At Coronation

In Our Barony of Ramshaven

Anno Societatis XLIV (forty-four)

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Central motif based on the Tara Brooch, early 8^th century Irish metalwork.

Aidan Scoetend aet thaem Mistigum Merum, Award of the Maiden's Heart

Aiden makes the Kingdom dance and the bowstrings sing

He gives of his time and energy to the betterment of others

Without hesitation

He is a dance teacher to the populace

And gives countless hours to learning his craft

And then in instructing others

Aiden taught classes at Knowne World Dance, 12th Night

Step Sprightly, V-Day, and Forward Into The Past

And has also spontaneously led classes

When a teacher has failed to appear

He has travelled to share his passion

Aidan has helped re-kindle the passion for dance in a time

When that gentle art had been starting to fade in nearby Kingdoms

And in so doing has made the Kingdom of Ealdormere

Shine like the Northern Star

As a beacon of hope

To our cousins and neighbours in the Knowne World

For his illustrious service

We, King Nigel and Queen Adrielle

Give unto Lord Aiden Scoetend aet thaem Mistigum Merum

The Award of the Maiden’s Heart.

He has the right to bear the badge

Quarterly azur and or

a heart counter-changed

Done this 24th day of April

Anno Societatis 44

At Coronation in our Canton of Caldrithig

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Motif based on late 10^th C. golden harness bow with Jellinge-style decoration (Mammen, Jutland, Denmark)

Runes in Elder Futhark

Anneke the Furious, Award of the Maiden’s Heart

Let us honour

The arm that carries

The ship that bears

The heart that ponders

Tireless and selfless

Lady Anneke the Furious

Has served with dedication and skill

At all manner of events.

She has contributed to many Eoforwic events

Served as an entourage volunteer

And now as Seneschal of Ard Chreag

Her organizational skills are exemplary

For her illustrious service

We, King Nigel and Queen Adrielle

Give unto Lady Anneke the Furious

The Award of the Maiden’s Heart.

She has the right to bear the badge

Quarterly azur and or

a heart counter-changed

Done this 17^th day of April

Anno Societatis 44

At Cloth of Gold

Hosted by the Canton of Eoforwic

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Motifs from the Ardagh Chalice, 7^th C. and the Lismore Crozier, insular Celtic art, c. 1100

Runes in Elder Futhark

Brigit Langbein, Award of the Maiden’s Heart

Stout of heart and strong of arm

Stands Brigit Langbein, mother of warriors

She possesses the heart of the North

And her deeds are wrought in greatness

Across the frozen plains.

Long has she stood ready

To do whatever service required,

Before its need is conceived.

She has taken up the mantle

Of Seneschal of Skeldergate

And has stood steadfastly

Behind countless Royalty.

From long hours conveying young warriors,

To steady council for those who would hear it,

She is a cornerstone of Our glorious kingdom.

For her continuing service to the Crown,

We Quilliam King and Dagmar Queen

Are minded to give her the Award of the Maiden’s Heart.

From this day forward she may bear the badge

So all may know of Our faith in her.

Done this 24^th day of September

Anno Societatis 46

In our Barony of Rising Waters

At Our Fall Coronation.

Scroll by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Motif based on the Tara Brooch, 7^th C. Irish Celtic metalwork

Calligraphy in half uncial

Thorolfr inn Smithr, Award of the Maiden's Heart

Thorolfr inn Smithr                Silent and steady

Your longship of service      Rides high in the waves

Lapstraked with offices                  Riveted with modesty

Through winters of counsel And summers of action

Quilliam intrepid                     Dagmar, most kindly

Make you a fine gift              Heart of a maiden

Born from the sky jewel        Wed to the swan’s road

Heralds your conquests       Safeguards your sailings

Award of the Maiden’s Heart

Done this 5^th day of June

Anno Societatis 45

At Pikeman’s Pleasure XX

In Petrea Thule

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Ship motif based on the Oseberg ship, early 9^th C.

Prow knotwork based on an 11^th C. brass shipvane, Urnes style

Runes in Elder Futhark

Evelyn atte Holye, Award of the Orion

Loving words have been spoken

Of one Lady Evelyn atte Holye

They tell of her skill in sewing,

Her grace in teaching, and her

True eye for colour and taste.

She sets her face towards all Arts

and lets Beauty be her guide.

Such work and service has not gone unnoticed,

And today We are pleased to honour her

Before all of Ealdormere.

Wherefore do We

King Trumbrand the Wanderer

And Queen Kaylah the Cheerful

Bestow upon you the Award of the Orion.

Enter into the joy of Our hearts.

Done this third day of November

Anno Societatis XXXXII

In Our Shire of Trinovantia Nova.

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Inspired by a 15^th century Spanish ms Add. 21,120

Konrad Matthias Jaeger, Award of the Orion

Mettle proved

In times of war

Ares’ son extends his realm

To peaceful fields

The watchful guardians

Long and lank

Who count the days of famine we are sent

Sure that the days of feasting shall reclaim

Their cousins

Very cradles of protection

Whatever Fortune’s turn

Soul of an army

We, Roak and Jocea

Have noted the skill

Of His Excellency

Master Sir Konrad Matthias Jaeger

In the construction of belts and boots

And other leatherwork

Here on Our Coronation Day,

We do bestow upon him

The Award of Orion

And all privileges thereto

Done this 25^th day of April

A.S. XLIII

In Our Barony of Ben Dunfirth

Wording, calligraphy and Illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Based on the Lindisfarne Gospels, c. 725

Puns:

Sent / Sure = ceinture Fr. Belt

Turn / Soul = turnsole

Penda of Glyndmere, Award of the Orion

Silent hides to him do speak

Iron glows beneath his gaze

Trees bend before his will

We Nigel Rex and Adrielle Regina

Have noted the endeavours

Of Lord Penda of Glyndmere

In leather working, blacksmithing

And armouring.

For the skill he brings to this Kingdom

We do bestow upon him

The Award of the Orion

Done this 14^th day of November

Anno Societatis 44

At the Ealdormere Fall Fair

In Our canton of Bryniau Tywynnog.

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Motif based on 7^th century Irish metalwork (Hunterston and Tara annular brooches and Ardagh chalice)

Calligraphy hand based on the Lindisfarne Gospels (8^th century)

Sibylla of Glyndmere, Award of the Orion

Sight comes to those who seek

Strength woven of finest thread

A riddle from the sleepless leaf

Open hands with meat and bread

We Nigel Rex and Adrielle Regina

Have heard of the generous works

Of Lady Sibylla of Glyndmere

Creating feasts, weaving trim

And serving her barony.

For the skill she brings to this Kingdom

We do bestow upon her

The Award of the Orion

Done this 14^th day of November

Anno Societatis 44

At the Ealdormere Fall Fair

In Our canton of Bryniau Tywynnog.

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Motif based on 7^th century Irish metalwork (Hunterston and Tara annular brooches and Ardagh chalice)

Calligraphy hand based on the Lindisfarne Gospels (8^th century)

Cailin of Ben Dunfirth, Award of the Scarlet Banner

Eli! Eli! The children cry

The sea of shields before him quakes

And makes to fly. With practised eye

Lord Cailin all his foes he breaks.

For his well-honed skills

And diligence in the ways of war

Let all salute a true shield of Ealdormere.

Quilliam, King, the gathering storm

Dagmar, Queen, fierce as the dawn

Give unto Lord Cailin of Ben Dunfirth

The Award of the Scarlet Banner

Bear it ever with pride

And protect it with honour

Done this 19^th day of June

Anno Societatis 45

At Murder Melee

In Our Barony of Ben Dunfirth

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Shield based on Migration Period gold disc brooch, Wittislingen, mid 7^th C.

Calligraphy in Insular half uncial

Maunus Sataielkanpoika, Award of the Scarlet Banner

Guardian of the lists

Friend of fighters old and new

Maunus serves faithfully

As Baronial Marshal and at local practices

He is first to step up as marshal in charge

And ever ready to give a new fighter a hand

Once a member of the unbelted team

Now a squire to Sir Menken

Maunus continually proves his skill on the field

For his many martial accomplishments

We, King Quilliam and Queen Dagmar

Give unto Lord Maunus Sataielkanpoika

The Award of the Scarlet Banner

He has the right to bear the badge

Argent, a pale wavy gules

Between two wolves combattant sable

Bear it ever with pride

And defend it with honour

Done this 24th day of April

Anno Societatis 44

At Coronation in our Canton of Caldrithig

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Motif based on late 10^th C. golden harness bow with Jellinge-style decoration (Mammen, Jutland, Denmark)

Runes in Elder Futhark

Nicolaa de Bracton, Award of the Scarlet Banner

Pendant plus que quatorze ans

Son Excellence Magistra Nicolaa de Bracton

constitute un exemple exceptionnel

sur le champ d’archerie:

Maréchal depuis longtemps,

Enseignante patiente,

Fabricante adroitte des flèches,

Et championne non seulement

De la baronnie

Mais de la royaume elle-même.

Par raison on l’appelle Diane.

En vertu de ces grand faits

Nous, Nigel rex et Adrielle regina,

Conferrons à elle

L’honneur de la bannière écarlate

Et tout privilège y compris.

Confirmée à l’occasion de

Notre tournoi de la Couronne

Au canton d’Ard Chreag

le 31 octobre

A.S. XLIV

  

Wording, illumination, calligraphy and French by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Based on Anglo-Norman examples of the 13 and 14^th centuries

Wulfric of the Woods, Award of the Scarlet Banner

Young wanderer amidst the trees

At the parting of the great waters

Many are your triumphs in battle.

Nurtured with spears

Comforted by the clash of shields

Lord Wulfric of the Woods

Yours is the blood of a warrior.

For your exceptional fighting prowess

And your willingness to teach

And assist others

We, King Roak of Ealdormere

And Queen Jocea Valente

Are minded to bestow upon you

The Award of the Scarlet Banner.

Bear it ever with pride

And protect it with honour.

Done at Pennsic War 38

Anno Societatis 44

Wording, calligraphy and illumination by THL Asa Gormsdottir

Illumination elements adapted from the Lismore Crozier, insular Celtic art, c. 1100. Calligraphy in half-uncial based on the Lindisfarne Gospels.

Thank you Scroll to Gerard Carpentarius

GERARD CARPENTARIUS

Wording for Thank-You Scroll from the Ealdormerean rapier community

Commissioned by KRM THL Albrecht Stampfer                                            June 14, 2009

Story:

The golden bird roosts in a magical tree on the border between night and day, the boundary between the real world and the unseen world. The river is jealous of the bird, whose beauty it mirrors but can never possess.

Gerard pined to own the bird and tracked it until he found the tree and the nest. He caught the golden bird with a silver net of fish-scale, and would have bore it away but the bird said, “If you let me go I will grant you great wisdom”.

Gerard agreed, but as he let go of the bird it vanished. In his surprise he fell out of the tree, catching a branch to help break his fall, which broke.

When he rose to his feet, the branch became a silver sword which he found he could wield with great skill, and he had gained the power over all wood.

But his heart still yearned for the golden bird. So he made his home in the grove surrounding the magical tree. From time to time he roams Eastward, sharing his sword knowledge with other warriors and delighting the small clan with his wooden toys and gentle games, waiting for the bird to return to his hand and be tame.

Golden the bird. Its roost of flames,

Door of undoing for evil men,

Guarding the boundary of day.

Jealous water below.

Fleeing the hunter, its shining feathers fall

And sink into the ground.

All nets are ash, all spears a brand,

But not the weave of the water-children.

Chained in silver, sky-jewel’s ransom

An empty hand. A fall.

So great the hunter’s laments,

Water-diamonds silver the broken branch.

And Loki’s gentle twin is born.

Hold fast to Odin’s prize.

While light’s thirst still compels

Gerard will never forsake

The fire-martin’s home.

The rapier community of Ealdormere

Thanks Gerard Carpentarius for his generosity,

His wisdom and his teaching.

May your games and sword-skill never abate.

By THL Asa Gormsdottir