Sun (heraldry)


A representation of the sun is used as a heraldic charge. The most usual form, often called sun in splendour or in his glory, consists of a round disc with the features of a human face surrounded by twelve or sixteen rays alternating wavy and straight. The alternating straight and wavy rays are often said to represent the light and heat of the sun respectively.
It was used as a badge by Edward II of England, and was later adopted by Edward IV following the appearance of a parhelion or "sun dog" before his victory at the Battle of Mortimer's Cross in 1461.
It also had significance in alchemy, and may be a symbol of the Roman deity Sol Invictus.
It is a common charge in the heraldry of many countries; e.g. the bearings of , Canada, and the arms of , England.
It also often appears as a rising sun as in the arms of , England, and as a demi sun as in the coat of , Canada.
The Sun of May shown on the national flags of Argentina and Uruguay is identical in form to the "Sun in Splendour".

Examples

;Sun in splendour, with face
;Sun in splendour, without face
;straight rays
;wavy rays
;without rays
;other forms