Dictionary of Phrase and Fable—A

Arms

In the Bayeux tapestry, the Saxons fight on foot with javelin and battle-axe, and bear shields with the British characteristic of a boss in the centre. The men were moustached.

The Normans are on horseback, with long shields and pennoned lances. The men are not only shaven, but most of them have a complete tonsure on the back of the head, whence the spies said to Harold, “There are more priests in the Norman army than men in Harold's.”

Source: Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, E. Cobham Brewer, 1894
Arms of England
Armoury
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