Rank: Mamluk Heraldry in Egypt

Rank was an illustrated symbol which was used in many sections of official and military organizations of Mamluks period. An Amir [ruler]'s rank-based upon his responsibility-had distinct pattern and color from the other rulers and men of rank. Rank patterns were divided into: animal, plant and instrumental categories in which the last one was more usual than the others and often presented Amir's status. For example, there were inkpot (Davatdar), sword pattern for swordsman, bundle(bughdjih) for wardrobe-holder and ball and stick of polo (cwgan) for polo-stick holder. In this paper, the types of rank are explicated which belong to Mumluks period, moreover, two chief hypotheses are introduced about the origin of rank, symbolizing and marking it in this period. Finally, as appendix, a few pictures are exposed to clarify the subject-matters which were discussed in this paper. These pictures belong to the instruments and means which include their rank of Mumluks period.