Fig. 277.—Crimson, or blood-color, is represented by diagonal lines from dexter chief and sinister chief, crossing each other. It denotes boldness, enthusiasm, impetuosity.
Fig. 278.—Black is represented by horizontal and perpendicular lines crossed. It means darkness, doubt, ignorance, uncertainty.
To the principal design portrayed on the shield can be added such appendages as are appropriate—crest over the top and a scroll with a motto beneath the shield—but they are supplementary, and not of great importance; their colors should be those of the shield.
Thus far our plans have followed the exact science of heraldry, but at this point comes a departure, for in the place of other armorial devices we shall place Dame Nature’s sweetest thoughts—flowers.
If we now add to the significance of the forms and colors already given the accepted and authentic language of flowers, we shall have a possibility of combinations practically inexhaustible, and with such a dictionary of symbols to draw upon, we can successfully translate almost any terse sentiment into a unique decorative design.
In order to give all the assistance in our power we have culled from the most generally accepted authorities and authentic sources a short floral vocabulary, and now that we have the material at hand let us test the system and learn
How to Make a Design in Decorative Language.
Suppose our Natural History Society desires an appropriate pin or badge.
First we turn to the floral vocabulary and there find that the magnolia means love of nature. The flower has a good decorative form, its sentiment is exactly appropriate, and we unhesitatingly adopt it.