I’ve seen many arms, especially crests, which have animals gripping balls. My own arms have this as well, with a bull "gripping" a ball as best as one could. We have this in our arms because in eastern symbolism, a depiction of an animal gripping a ball served as notice to outsiders that family members were practitioners of the martial arts. What significance does this have in western heraldry?
Dear Mr. Glass,
That is very interesting. As you may know, I am kicking around ideas for a thesis on heraldry. May I trouble you for a reference or two on the eastern symbolism of an animal gripping a ball?
Regards,
I have always assumed that in British heraldry, where arms and crests need be unique, you see animals holding various charges merely to distinguish one achievement from another. So the charge would naturally be something relative, roundel or not.
It seemed more common in Southeastern Europe to see a roundel and sphere, to my reckoning.
I thought it was because it made the table leg more stable.