flag identification help

[Mike_Oettle]

Lions were extraordinarily common in coats of arms even before the Crusades.
It seems that they were already a popular symbol in the devices borne by Flemish knights before 1066.
Many Flemings accompanied William of Normandy’s army to England, and others followed across the Channel. Heraldists are now largely agreed that heraldry, invented in Flanders, became widespread in England after the so-called Norman Conquest, and was taken up in most parts of the Continent following the First Crusade.
Probably not many coats of arms included lions before the First Crusade, but after the knights returned from that venture, they were to be seen on shields across Europe. They were especially popular in Britain (England, Wales and Scotland) and Germany, but nowhere were they more popular than in the Low Countries.
In those days lions could apparently still be seen not far from Mediterranean shores.
Regards,
Mike

[Carl]

I would Imagine the Scots and the English and other ancient Europeans for that mater didn't have to travel to Africa in order for their early cultures to come into contact or be influenced by Lions and other unusual beasties. The Roman Empire transported such animals great distances in order to show case and kill them in gladiatorial arenas all over ancient Europe and the Mediterranean.

[Silent Raven]

such a simple question turned into quite the history lesson! thanks every one! and i did not purchase it because i did not know of its origin but the lions did catch my eye and make me think that it was possible of Celtic origin. i did visit the shop again later and the flag is still there, i don't think many folks here know what it is... the shop keepers didn't that's for sure.

I would Imagine the Scots and the English and other ancient Europeans for that mater didn't have to travel to Africa in order for their early cultures to come into contact or be influenced by Lions and other unusual beasties. The Roman Empire transported such animals great distances in order to show case and kill them in gladiatorial arenas all over ancient Europe and the Mediterranean.

excellent point!