Stirling Castle - Court Life - Sir David Lindsay of the Mount

Sir David Lindsay of the Mount

The ‘True Renaissance Man’ of the royal court; a diplomat, poet, writer, artist, and producer of satirical plays. He began his royal service under James IV and continued on under the reign of James V. When the King was still young, Lindsay essentially became his surrogate father.

By 1530 he was officially appointed Snowdon herald, eventually becoming the senior herald and Lyon King of Arms of all Scotland. In this role he observed and influenced the behaviour of the court, organising great state occasions such as weddings, funerals and christenings. He was also given the privilege of helping to organise the coronation of Mary Queen of Scots at Stirling Castle. In addition, he would have been aware of the more mundane, like the order of rank and seating at the Queens table.

Sir David would have needed a strong and powerful voice in order to make his presence felt as he clutched his staff of state to direct courtiers. His main distinction would have been his sumptuously embroidered tabard, which depicted the Royal coat of arms of Scotland; the Lion Rampant upon it being the embodiment of the Kings and Queens of the Kingdom.

Sir David Lindsay compiled the first book of heraldic coats of arms in Scotland.

Sir David Lindsay compiled the first book of heraldic coats of arms in Scotland. Drawn by his own hand it is still used as an important source of reference to this day.

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