Award of Arms - John Badger

I received a very compelling and entertaining write-up from the East Kingdom Signet for this AoA. The person who recommended John Badger spoke of his promise and kindness over his first year or two in the SCA, including an absolutely silly number of hats that he had made for others. When I read his wiki page, it was full of whimsy. Thus, I was compelled to write words that leaned more into the whimsy than the dramatic. I ran them by his point of contact before committing them to paper, just to be sure. I enjoyed getting to write something slightly different.

The illumination is based on 11th-12th century English illuminations to match the recipient's persona. Since it is an 11th/12th century English scroll, I used a Carolingian script, with Roman capitals. This was my first time using the alternative, medieval "s" and it tripped me up repeatedly. I have never made so many mistakes on a scroll, but I was mercifully able to fix almost all of them.

This was also my first time using my new fancy Arches hot press watercolor paper. I was so excited for this paper because it has been made in the same factory in France since SCA period, and it did not disappoint. I knew I was going to put more color to the page, so I wanted something that wouldn't curl in the same way pergamenata often does, but that would be just as period-like. Arguably, perg is an imitation of parchment, and this paper may be the real thing - so it may be more period!

Many thanks to my friend Baron Lawrence Vaughan for hand-delivering this for me, all the way to the Great Northeastern War in Maine.

Words, Calligraphy, Illumination by Sabine di Sandra

Words

Subjects of the East, gather and hear of the one called John Badger. In haste, one may mistake this gentle for a mere English peasant. But lo! The light that shines through the forest reveals one who studies its secrets, and makes art of its hidden treasures. He has journeyed deep to find things to share with the populace. But fear not, for a trail of hats created by his hand leads the way through Carolingia back to him. And it is here that We find him, having heard of his works and generosity. When arts and sciences meet service, the Kingdom of the East is benefitted immeasurably. John Badger has shown an affinity for both, and is eager to help others find their way.

For this, We, Ryouko'jin Saisei, Demon-King of the Three Heavens, and Maharani Indrakshi, Horned Queen of the Night Sky, do see fit to confer upon John Badger this Award of Arms. Done this day at the Great Northeastern War, A.S. LX, in the Province of Malagentia.