Arthur Forman Balfour Paul (1875-1938) was a noted Scottish heraldic artist, antiquary, and the Albany Herald at the Court of the Lord Lyon. His contributions to the fields of heraldry and Scottish antiquities were significant during his lifetime, leaving a lasting impact on both disciplines.
Early Life and Education
Arthur Forman Balfour Paul was born on September 7, 1875, in Edinburgh, Scotland. He was the son of Sir James Balfour Paul, who served as the Lord Lyon King of Arms, a position of great influence in Scottish heraldry. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the study and practice of heraldry, Arthur was naturally inclined towards this field. He received his early education at Edinburgh Academy, a prestigious independent school, and later attended the University of Edinburgh, where he studied law.
Career
Arthur followed in his father's footsteps and developed a keen interest in heraldry. He became an advocate in 1900 but soon dedicated himself to the study and practice of heraldry and antiquities. His legal training provided a strong foundation for his meticulous work in heraldry.
In 1909, he was appointed as the Albany Herald of Arms Extraordinary, a prestigious position within the Court of the Lord Lyon, the heraldic authority for Scotland. This role allowed him to combine his legal expertise with his passion for heraldry, contributing to the administration and development of Scottish heraldic practice.
Arthur Balfour Paul was also a talented artist. His artistic skills were evident in his beautifully illustrated heraldic manuscripts and books. He was instrumental in producing works that were not only accurate in their heraldic details but also visually appealing. His artistic contributions helped to popularize and preserve the tradition of heraldic art in Scotland.
Contributions to Heraldry and Antiquities
Arthur Balfour Paul's work extended beyond his official duties. He was an active member of various antiquarian and historical societies, where he contributed through research, lectures, and publications. His scholarly work provided valuable insights into Scottish heraldry and history.
One of his notable contributions was his involvement in the publication of "An Ordinary of Arms," a comprehensive collection of Scottish arms recorded between 1672 and 1901, which he co-authored with his father. This work remains a critical reference for researchers and enthusiasts of Scottish heraldry.
Personal Life
Arthur married Christian Wauchope in 1903, and they had three children. Despite his professional commitments, he was known for his dedication to his family and his community. His personal life was marked by his deep love for Scottish culture and history, which he actively promoted and preserved throughout his life.
Legacy
Arthur Forman Balfour Paul passed away on June 28, 1938, but his legacy continues to be felt in the fields of heraldry and Scottish antiquities. His meticulous research, artistic contributions, and dedication to the preservation of Scottish heraldic traditions have ensured that his work remains relevant and respected.
Arthur's life and work serve as a testament to the importance of preserving cultural heritage and the value of combining scholarly research with artistic expression. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the study and practice of heraldry in Scotland.
References
- "Arthur Forman Balfour Paul." The Heraldry Society. Available at: The Heraldry Society
- "An Ordinary of Arms Contained in the Public Register of All Arms and Bearings in Scotland," by Sir James Balfour Paul and Arthur Forman Balfour Paul, 2nd edition, 1903.
- "Edinburgh Academy Register: A Record of All Those Who Have Entered the School Since Its Foundation in 1824," Edinburgh Academy.
- "The Court of the Lord Lyon." Official Website of the Lyon Court. Available at: Court of the Lord Lyon
- "Notable Figures in Scottish Heraldry." ScotClans. Available at: ScotClans