[split] Discussion of f116v interpretations by Anton Alipov

[-JKP-]

On the other hand we have those southern mellons

I have never been convinced by Pelling's arguments here - I would suggest that, given the general amibguity of illustrations in this manuscript, the swallowtops are simply a generic illustration preference of the illustrator. After all, he appears to have no reason to be so specific about this little detail.

Swallowtail merlons were far from generic in the 14th and 15th centuries. They were a very strident political statement, deliberately setting apart the Ghibellines from the Guelphs (Holy Roman Empire supporters versus Papists).

As an example, look at the recent furor over the the southern states' rebel flags. The swallowtail merlons were almost as divisive and socially explosive as those.