One escutcheon may depict multiple shapes, depending on the epoch and country of its origin. The heraldic escutcheon initially was a defensive military piece, but with the passage of time it acquired more decorative functions.

Since the 16th century it began to appear on a cartouche, and later, in the 18th century, the coat of arms was often wrapped in a richly ornamented frame. These frames always depended on the artistic sensitivity of each era: Baroque, rococo, neoclassical, etc.

The client will have his own coat of arms integrated in a complete ornate frame imitating wood, gold or painted an enamel etc. Other external elements, such as a banner (containing a family motto), crest, coronet (or crown) etc. can be added.