Dolphin (heraldry)

Lore & Background

The heraldic dolphin is depicted as a large fish, the mahi-mahi or dolphinfish, and bears little resemblance to the marine mammal. Its attitude is usually shown as naiant (swimming horizontally) and embowed (back curved upwards), mimicking a leaping dolphin. When not specified, a dolphin is assumed to be naiant and embowed. A torqued dolphin is twisted into an S-shape, while hauriant shows it upright and urinant diving downward. It is sometimes twined around an anchor.

Reader's Guide

The heraldic dolphin holds particular significance as the symbol of the Dauphins of Viennois, depicted azure with fins and tongue gules. When the signorie of Dauphiné was sold to the crown of France in 1349, the French heir was thereafter called the Dauphin and used the heraldic dolphin. The same colors were displayed by the family of La Tour du Pin, which claimed descent from the Dauphins d'Auvergne. In English heraldry, dolphins first appear in the thirteenth century and are often found in the arms of coastal townships, as well as many British families. Its legacy lies in its consistent use as a distinctive charge, linking French royal succession and regional identity, while also serving as a common maritime emblem in British heraldry.

Did You Know?

• The heraldic dolphin is based on the mahi-mahi or dolphinfish, not the marine mammal.
• When not otherwise specified, a heraldic dolphin is assumed to be naiant and embowed.
• A dolphin azure, finned and langued gules, was the symbol of the Dauphins of Viennois.
• Heraldic dolphins first appear in English heraldry in the thirteenth century.