Poursuivant - Definition - Law Dictionary Home Dictionary Definition poursuivant

Definition :

Poursuivant, a king's messenger; those employed in martial causes were called Poursuivants-at-Arms.

There are, at present, in the Heralds' Office four poursuivants, distinguished by the names following:-

(1) Rouge Croix.--Instituted at an uncertain period, but generally considered to be the most ancient. The title was doubtless derived from the cross of St. George.

(2) Blue Mantle..--An office instituted by Edward III. or Henry V., and named either in allusion to the colour of the arms of France or to that of the robes of the Order of the Garter.

(3) Rouge Dragon.--This poursuivancy was founded by Henry VII. on the day before his coronation, the name being derived from the ensign of his ancestor, Cadwaladyr. He also assumed a red dragon as the dexter supporter of his arms.

(4) Portcullis.--This office was instituted by the same monarch, from one of whose badges the title was derived. See HERALD. As to the office of Paurguivant of the Great seal, ss. 37 & 38, Vict. C. 81.