LYON KING-AT-ARMS. This office is of great antiquity and respect in Scotland; and although the precise date of its institution is unknown, yet it must have been as early as the introduction of armorial figures as hereditary marks of gentility and distinction into this country, which was in the twelfth century. (For a history and description of the Lord Lyon's court, see the article HERALD.) The regalia of this officer are,—a crown of gold, with a crimson velvet cap, a gold tassel, and an ermine lining; a velvet robe reaching to his feet, with the arms of the kingdom embroidered thereon, before and behind, in the proper tinctures; a triple row of gold chains round his neck, with an oval gold medal pendant thereto, on one side of which is the royal bearing, and on the other St. Andrew with his cross enamelled in proper colours, and a baton of gold enamelled green, powdered with the badges of the kingdom. On solemn occasions the Lord Lyon wears the regalia above described; at all other times he wears the oval gold medal or badge on his breast, suspended by a broad green ribbon.