In the case of all devices introduced as differences it will generally be found advisable to draw them to a somewhat smaller scale than the charges already in the arms.
In many ancient heraldic shields, especially in painted glass, and to a lesser extent in carved work and on seals, the plain uncharged surfaces of the field or ordinaries are relieved by covering them with the purely ornamental decoration called diapering (figs. [45], [48]). An early instance in relief occurs on the shield of the effigy in the Templars' church in London usually ascribed to Geoffrey de Magnavilla; and another delicately sculptured example of later date is to be seen on the Vere effigy in Hatfield Broadoak church in Essex (fig. [47]). Several fine instances of painted diapering will be found in Stothard's Monumental Effigies. This beautiful treatment has, happily, been largely revived of late years by the glass painters, who use it quite successfully, probably from the ease with which in their case it can be applied. Modern carvers use it very sparingly, and this perhaps is as it should be, for diapering needs to be done with great skill in sculpture to look well. A careful study therefore of old examples is advisable, in order thoroughly to understand the principles of its application.
Fig. 47. Diapered shield of the arms of Vere, from an effigy in Hatfield Broadoak church, Essex.
Fig. 48. Diapered shield from the seal of Robert Waldby archbishop of York, 1390, for the regality of Hexham.