PLain Shields were anciently used, as many Authors testify, and as we may inferr from the History of Solomon in our Bibles, and the Lives Alexander Severus, and Alexander of Macedon, where Mention is made of Golden and Silver Shields, but not of any Portrait or Imbossment upon them. In the history of King Edward I of England, Mention is made of Eumenius de la Brect, who bore his Shield only Gules.
Some have consisted only of Furrs, as among others (for Example) the Arms of Gresly of Drakelove.
In all these there was no Distinction of Field and Charge; but Instances of this kind are very rare. page xx