BBC coat of arms: Encyclopedia II - BBC coat of arms - Elements

BBC coat of arms - Elements

The various elements of the coat of arms were chosen to provide a heraldic translation of the qualities of the BBC.

• Lion — the crest of the coat of arms (lion at the top, above the shield and helmet) states the fact that the BBC is British.
• Thunderbolt — The lion grasps a thunderbolt in its outstretched paw, this to represent broadcasting itself (transmission).
• Eagles — In heraldic language the two eagles which grasp the shield are "supporters". Eagles were chosen to depict the inherent speed of broadcasting. Both eagles have bugles suspended from their collars, these represent "proclamation", i.e. the public service element of broadcasting.
• Motto — The coat of arms features the BBC motto, "Nation shall speak peace unto Nation"
• Shield
  • Globe — the globe in the shield of the coat of arms represents the scope and breadth of the BBC's operations
  • Estoiles — Around the globe are seven estoiles, heraldic symbols for divine goodness and nobility. Their place in the shield increase the representation of the scope and breadth of the corporation.

The background of the shield, the mantling (drapery depicted tied to the helmet above the shield) and the collars of the eagles are blue (azure in heraldry).

Adapted from the Wikipedia article "Elements", under the G.N U Free Docmentation License. Please also see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki