How were coat of arms plaques made in medieval times?

Coat of arms plaques in medieval times were crafted using traditional hand methods, and the term coat of arms plaques appears in workshop records from the 14th century. Stone plaques were shaped using chisels and hammers, often placed in churches or on castle walls. Wooden plaques, usually made from oak, were carved by hand and painted with pigments derived from minerals such as ochre and lapis. Metal plaques became more common by the 15th century. Bronze and brass were cast using moulds, allowing for more detailed designs. Each plaque followed heraldic rules, ensuring that colours and symbols matched official records. Gold leaf was sometimes applied to highlight important features. Crafting a single plaque could take several weeks, depending on its size and detail. Skilled artisans worked in cities like London, where guilds regulated quality. Surviving examples show remarkable durability, with some wooden plaques lasting over 400 years when kept indoors. These pieces remain valuable records of craftsmanship and social history.