Mantle and pavilion (heraldry)

In heraldry, a mantle is a symbol of sovereign power and is generally reserved for royalty. In some cases, its use has also been granted to other nobles, in recognition of particular merits. In ordinary rendering, the mantle is usually crimson and lined with ermine.

Certain coats of arms may also display a pavilion (similar to a baldachin) surmounting the mantle. The pavilion is said to be the invention of the Frenchman Philip Moreau. Some republics have displayed a mantle and pavillon in their coats of arms, contemporarily Serbia.

While common in continental European heraldry, the mantle and pavilion is absent in English and Scottish heraldry.

Mantle and pavilion should not be mixed with Mantling.