Panther (legendary creature)

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Ancient greek art depicting Dionysus riding a panther

A Panther is a creature out of ancient myth that resembles a big cat with a multicoloured hide.

Under medieval belief after feasting the panther will sleep in a cave for a total of three days. After this period ends, the panther roars, in the process emiting a sweet smelling odour. This odour draws in any creatures who smell it (the dragon being the only creature immune) and the cycle begins again.

The ancient Greeks believed the panther was one of the favored mounts of the god Dionysus.

Other names for this creature are pantera, pantere, and love cervere.

[edit] Illustration

Heraldry from Raglan Castle, England featureing an example of a non-feline panther

Mostly drawn as a type of cat, the panther was, at times, depicted in other forms. The panther was depicted as a donkey; a composite creature with a horned head, long neck and a horses body; as well as a host of other forms. This was mostly due to those involved not knowing what a panther should look like, but in some instances these other forms are due to cultural influnces. In Germay in particular, the panther is often depicted in heraldry as a creature with four horns, cows ears and a fiery red tongue. An example of the former is the coat-of-arms of the city of Cres, Croatia. [[1]]

[edit] Heraldry

Medieval heraldry

In heraldry the panther is commonly used in a form known as the Panther Incensed. In this form the panther is depicted with flames coming from its mouth and ears, representing the panther's sweet odour. This form was most notably used by King Henry VI as his badge and by other members of the House of Lancaster.