Shields with Sigils and Mottos

(EDIT: I made a number of improvements to the overall shield template and introduced some additional distinguishing features for most of the individual shields.)

This was an entry into the Cartographer's Guild Lite Competition for August/September (EDIT: I tied for last place. Plenty of room for improvement next time!). Each shield is meant to symbolize the character and themes of a different group or faction. These factions could be any kind of group: schools, secret societies, regional powers, noble houses, whatever. Drawing inspiration from the noble houses of A Song of Ice and Fire, I've included a thematic motto to go along with each shield.

The "Dutiful" faction is one of service, constancy, and unbreakable devotion. I see them as law enforcement, administrators of justice, and bureaucrats. The physical chain on the shield face could be both a symbol and a readily-available tool for securing prisoners. Note: "the Star of David chain" is not intended to be a reference to, or comment on, Judaism or Israel.

The "Imperial" faction is one of ambition, power, and dangerous knowledge. They're either at the top of their political ladder, or they're working very hard to get there. The flying golden dragon symbolizes their dominance atop the social pecking order. The snakes symbolize their refusal to submit to any other authority. The snakes' eyes could either be gemstones or some sort of magic device. The purple field signifies royalty.

The "Bezerker" faction is one of aggression, courage, and military strength. These are the foot soldiers, the regular army. The attacking ram on fire is meant to symbolize bravery in battle. The red field also signifies their role as warriors. The shield is splattered with blood to help drive home the point.

The "Hippy" faction is focused on the transforming power of something like education and/or religion. They try to "make the world a better place". The butterfly is meant to be both a symbol for the soul and transformation, while the blue field symbolizes their loyalty to their cause. The steel is a Damascus steel pattern weld, which can demonstrate their sophisticated methods, the swirling mysteries they embrace, or both.

The "Phoenix" faction is one of redemption. This is a group that welcomes orphans, the destitute, and the disgraced, giving their lives some sort of meaningful and honorable purpose, like the firebird rising to new life out of the ash-grey field (which signifies grief).

The "Protector" faction is one of traditional feudalism. These are all about knighthood and chivalry. The rampant stallion is meant to symbolize their determination to defend their people. The gold field symbolizes generosity.