Oriel College, Oxford

The College Arms

In heraldic terminology: gules three lions passant guardant or within a bordure engrailed argent

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The arms of the College are basically those of the founder Edward II, the three gold lions of England. However, as no-one can bear another's arms unaltered, a silver border was added 'for difference'.

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The three feathers, often adopted by members of the College, can be found in decorations around college and is the motif on the college crested tie. It probably represents the founder, Edward II, who was the first Prince of Wales in the present line. However, it has been suggested that it stands for Charles I, who was Prince of Wales when the College was rebuilt in the seventeenth century.

Related Topics:
Edward II - Prince of Wales - Charles I

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College colours are two white stripes on navy.

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