Post by Tamrin on Nov 11, 2008 20:04:32 GMT 10
The Golden Fleece & The Roman Eagle
by W.J. Griffiths
by W.J. Griffiths
"The Golden Fleece"
The Order of the Golden Fleece was founded by Philip the Good, Duke of Burgundy, in January 1429 on the occasion of his marriage with Isabella, daughter of King John 1st, of Portugal.
The Order was instituted for the protection of the Catholic Church. The Fleece was chosen as the emblem because Wool was the predominate product of the lower European countries in which the Order flourished. The number of the Knights of the Order was 24. In 1433 the number was raised to 30, all gentlemen of birth. The last Chapter of the original Order was held by Philip 2nd of Spain in the Cathedral of Ghent.
"The Roman Eagle"
The Roman Eagle has an interesting history. The Eagle was highly esteemed among the Romans. It was usually depicted with outstretched wings, sometimes of gold and silver, but most frequently of bronze. It was carried at the head of a staff in the same manner as a banner.
The Eagle borne upon a spear appears to have been used first by the Persians. The Romans took the idea from them, and used it as an emblem of honour, to be carried before the Chief Ruler. In 1804, Napoleon had metal eagles as a symbol of their [sic] empires. The symbol of the S.S.A. is the Bald Eagle. In 1701, Frederick 1st, of Prussia founded the Order of the Black Eagle. The number of Knights was limited to 30, exclusive of Princes of royal blood. The revisions of our Rituals probably selected the reference to the Roman Eagle as it was the highest emblem of dignity, honour and power of the famous Roman Empire.
