Cramaille

Cramaille (pronounced kra-mah-yuh) is an archaic French word, primarily used in the context of heraldry. It refers to a type of heraldic charge depicted as a metal hook, clamp, or cramp. It is often represented as a stylized iron fitting or bracket used for holding things together, particularly stones or building elements. The cramaille is considered an artificial charge, meaning it is a representation of a man-made object rather than a natural element. Its symbolism, though not definitively established, is generally understood to relate to holding fast, strength, or the ability to bind and connect. In heraldic blazon, the presence of a cramaille would need to be explicitly stated in the description of the coat of arms. The term is relatively rare compared to other heraldic charges and is more frequently encountered in older heraldic descriptions.