the Herald 8
SIR PHILLIP SYDNEY
Even in death it was deemed importance to mark your status in society for the sixteenth century nobility. It was normal for the funeral of a noble to be organized by a herald. This was a good opportunity for herald's to supplement their income and this often caused dispute among the heralds as to who's turn it was to officiate at a particular funeral. Sir Phillip Sydney was given a state funeral, a rare honor.To this day ceremonies such as funerals and coronations are arranged by heralds under the direction of the earl marshal. This process began in the sixteenth century. Paintings of processions usually show the herald leading, bearing the coats of arms of the deceased. As the sixteenth century progressed it became fashionable for the gentry to replicate these great events on a smaller scale which also added to the income that heralds were able to earn.
