Sun (heraldry)

A representation of the sun is used as a heraldic charge. The most usual form, often called sun in splendour or in his glory, consists of a round disc with the features of a human face surrounded by twelve or sixteen rays alternating wavy and straight.[2][3] The alternating straight and wavy rays are often said to represent the light and heat of the sun respectively.[4]

The sun as a charge

Sun of May as depicted on the flag of Argentina

Great Seal of Richard I of England (1198). Richard is depicted as seated between a crescent and a "Sun full radiant"[1]

It was used as a badge by Edward II of England, and was later adopted by Edward IV following the appearance of a parhelion or "sun dog" before his victory at the Battle of Mortimer's Cross in 1461.[3][5] It also had significance in alchemy, and may be a symbol of the Roman deity Sol Invictus (Unconquered Sun).[6]

It is a common charge in the heraldry of many countries; e.g. the bearings of Armstrong, Canada, and the arms of Banbury Town Council, England. It also often appears as a rising sun as in the arms of East Devon District Council, England, and as a demi sun as in the coat of Aitchison, Canada.

The Sun of May shown on the national flags of Argentina (1818), Uruguay (1828); in the flag and shield of the South-Peruvian State (1836 - 1839); on the flag and shield of the Peruvian-Bolivian Confederation (1836 - 1839); in the flag of Peru of 1812; in the current flag of the Peruvian Navy (1821); and in the current flag of the Argentine Army (1810)and that represents the Inca indigenous culture; specifically the Inca god of the sun "Inti" or also called "Sun of May", all of them identical in shape to the "Sun in Splendour" .