Eagles

Considered one of the most powerful creatures in the world, the eagle has occupied a very prominent position in the visual arts throughout the centuries.

Because of its majestic aura this bird of prey with powerful talons and a hooked beak often features in heraldry, particularly in the coats of arms of families or countries. In classical mythology the eagle is the attribute of Zeus, the supreme god. The figure of an eagle surmounted the standards of the Roman legions as a symbol of power and victory. In Christian art the eagle stands for Christ’s resurrection and ascension because of its ability to soar to great heights. The eagle is also the sign of John the Evangelist and the attribute of various other saints, including Augustine. The lion is considered the mightiest animal on land and, like the eagle, is found on many escutcheons.