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ermine
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The image shows different styles of shields.
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ermine

heraldry
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The image shows different styles of shields.
Partition of the shield The field is often divided along the lines occupied by ordinaries, just as quartering imitates a cross. “Per fess” means along the line over which a fess would be laid down. The ermine tails illustrated are one type of stylization among many in use. The superior dexter segment on the gyronny shield is called a gyron and is occasionally found singly.

In heraldry, an ermine spot is a symbolic representation of an ermine's tail. The ermine itself is a small mammal, a species of weasel (Mustela erminea), known for its white winter coat. Historically, this white fur, particularly the black-tipped tail, was highly prized and used in royal robes in Europe, signifying rank and status.12

Heraldic terminology involves specific ways to describe colors and patterns, including furs like ermine. When blazoning (describing) a coat of arms, the field (background) is identified first, which could be ermine. The term "ermine" in heraldry refers to this specific fur pattern, often depicted with black spots on a white background.32

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  2. heraldry - The reading of heraldry
  3. ermine

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