Livery Badges

During the later Middle Ages and early Renaissance, soldiers and household retainers wore livery badges to identify their allegiance. Sometimes embroidered on fabric, livery badges were also made from base and precious metals, appliquéd or even painted on paper, fabric or parchment.

Here we offer three embroidered 15th century badges- the Fire Steel of the Dukes of Burgundy, the Whyte Boar of Richard, Duke of Gloucester (Richard III) and the "Sun in Splendor" of Edward IV.

Badges are based on period designs and come in 2 styles: “Silk” is colorfast, shrink proof rayon thread which mimics silk without the fading, bleeding or rotting which can be a problem with real silk. “Bullion” badges are richly embroidered of couched metal thread with “silk” accents. All badges are cut to shape with finished edges, ready to be stitched to your garment. “Silk” badges have a special backing which allows them to be permanently applied with a hot steam iron if desired.

Livery badges may be displayed anywhere, but historically most are seen on the outside of the upper left sleeve, on the left breast, or applied to a bend or scarf and worn over the shoulder. Our badges can be used to add historical flair to tents, banners, pennons, hats and hoods, heraldic clothing, pouches, pillows and household furnishings, book covers, horse trappings, bardings and saddle covers, sword scabbards- the list is nearly endless!

These designs are made exclusively for Historic Enterprises by a professional embroidery firm. We are happy to provide custom designs for societies, households and other groups. There is a minimum order of 12 pieces for custom work, and your design must be submitted in .jpg format for price quote and production. Please contact us for details info@historicenterprises.com .