Monday 2 December 2013

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, 13th or 14th 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, 8th or 9th 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 1st 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.

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

Tuesday 19 November 2013

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 25th 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 7th 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, 7th 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 6th 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 6th century Saragossa bird-shaped fibula (Spanish, Barbarian)

Calligraphic hand based on the Lindisfarne Gospels (8th 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 6th 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, 7th century Anglo-Saxon metalwork

Calligraphic hand based on the Lindisfarne Gospels (8th 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, 10th 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 24th 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, 10th 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 12th 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 9th 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 8th 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 10th 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 17th 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, 7th 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 24th 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, 7th 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 5th 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 9th C.
Prow knotwork based on an 11th 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 15th 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 25th 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 14th 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 7th century Irish metalwork (Hunterston and Tara annular brooches and Ardagh chalice)

Calligraphy hand based on the Lindisfarne Gospels (8th 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 14th 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 7th century Irish metalwork (Hunterston and Tara annular brooches and Ardagh chalice)

Calligraphy hand based on the Lindisfarne Gospels (8th 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 19th 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 7th 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 10th 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 14th 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