Badge, Livery, Stafford Knot

The earliest authentic appearance of the Stafford Knot is on the seal in the British Museum, and this was the property of Joan, Lady of Wake, who died childless in 1443.

Her personal possessions passed to her nephew, Humphrey, Earl of Stafford, who adopted the Knot of Rope, henceforth known as the Stafford Knot, as his badge, probably just preceding his creation as Duke of Buckingham in 1444. Henry Stafford, became the 2nd Duke of Buckingham in 1460 on the death of his father. When Edward IV died, Buckingham supported Richard III's claim to the throne and was rewarded with the high constableship of England. In the same year, however, he led a rebellion against Richard and was captured and executed for treason.

The Duke of Buckingham and his descendants used this Stafford Knot as personal cognizance. It did not form part of their armorial bearings, which were personal to themselves, but it was their badge and they gave the knot of rope to their retainers and servants as a livery and means of recognition.

May be applied to shirts, sweatshirts, caps, hats duffle, armour and kit bags to show your allegiance when you're not at events!

Washable, colourfast thread embroidery with iron on backing. May be sewn or ironed on.

4" wide x 2.5" tall