Roundel (heraldry)

Roundels are among the oldest charges used in coats of arms, dating from the start of the age of heraldry in Europe, circa 1200–1215.

Roundels are typically a solid colour but may be charged with an item or be any of the furs used in heraldry.

[1] In some languages, the heraldic roundel has a unique name specific to its tincture, based on the Old French tradition.

This is still observed in English-language heraldry, which adopted terms from Old French for specific round items.

The precise number and placement of the roundels in such cases were usually left to the discretion of the artist.