Arms of Poole (1925 Postcard Design) T-Shirt
This t-shirt showcases a historically significant rendition of the Arms of Poole, mirroring the design found on a postcard dating back to approximately 1925 in England. The design offers a stylized, instantly recognizable representation of Poole's heraldic identity as it was understood and promoted during that period.
Design Elements and Symbolism
The central element of this design is the shield, a classic heraldic form. The shield is divided into a series of horizontal wavy bands. These bands, known as "Barry wavy," alternate between gold (Or) and red (Gules), a visual metaphor that suggests the sea's movement and symbolizes Poole's deep connection to the maritime world.
Superimposed upon the wavy bands is a silver (Argent) dolphin, depicted "naiant embowed" – gracefully curved in a swimming position. This dolphin, a heraldic emblem, represents Poole's fishing industry and its historical reliance on the sea as a source of livelihood and prosperity. The dolphin is also "langued Gules," meaning it has a red tongue, adding a subtle touch of color.
At the top of the shield is a "Chief wavy," a horizontal band, colored red (Gules) to echo the bands in the field. Within this chief are three gold (Or) escallops, or scallop shells. These shells are a heraldic symbol that alludes to Poole's historical role as a departure point for pilgrims traveling to Santiago de Compostela. The presence of these shells signifies the town's connection to pilgrimage and its significance in religious and cultural exchange.
Overall, the artwork presents a vibrant and symbolic encapsulation of Poole's rich history and its enduring connection to the sea, fishing, and pilgrimage.
