Hatchment

A hatchment is a funeral demonstration of the lifetime "achievement" of the arms (shield, helmet, crest, supporters) and any other honours displayed on a black lozenge-shaped frame which used to be suspended against the wall of a deceased person's house. The word derives from the early French word "achevement". It was usually placed over the entrance at the level of the second floor, and remained for from six to twelve months, after which it was removed to the parish church. The practice developed in the early 17th century from the custom of carrying an heraldic shield before the coffin of the deceased, then leaving it for display in the church. In medieval times, helmets and shields were sometimes deposited in churches.