Marlet

A marlet is a heraldic bird, depicted as a martin (a type of swallow) without feet. It is a common charge in coats of arms, particularly in British heraldry.

Symbolism

The marlet traditionally symbolizes the fourth son in a family, signifying that he has no land to inherit and must rely on his own merits. It also represents perseverance, diligence, and sometimes freedom, as the martlet is always on the wing. Another interpretation suggests that the footless bird represents someone who has been exiled or lost their land, forced to "always be on the wing" seeking a new place to settle.

Appearance

A marlet is generally depicted as a small bird with a streamlined body and wings spread for flight. Its most distinctive feature is the absence of visible feet. While the exact depiction can vary, it is usually shown in profile. The beak is typically small and pointed.

Use in Heraldry

Marlets are often used as cadency marks to distinguish junior members of a family. They can also appear as independent charges on shields, crests, and other heraldic devices. The number and arrangement of marlets can also have specific significance.

Alternative Spellings and Variations

While "marlet" is the most common spelling, variations such as "merlet" can also be found, although they are less frequent. The term "martin" is also sometimes used interchangeably, though technically a martin with visible feet would not be a true marlet.