Curonian Kings. Coat of arms. Kurschkonigen, Courland
Curonian Kings. Kurschkonigen. Coat of arms. Courland. 17th century. In 1230, an agreement concluded between King Lamekin (Lammekinus Rex), representive of the Curonians, and an authorised representative of a legate of the Roman Pope, stipulated that the Curonians should participate in battles against the pagans. The agreement was soon terminated. The title of the Curonian kings was first confirmed in writing to Peni"uis in the fief deed in 1504, but the first such deed had been issued to Tontegode in 1320. The kings of Courland lived in seven free villages: "ooni...oi, Kaleji, Pli"ui, Zieme"ui, Draguni, Viesalgi and Sausga"ui. As vassals they received lands and privileges from the Livonian Order. In return they had the duty to participate in battles with their horses and weapons in defence of the Livonian Order, while being exempted from various obligations. The coats of arms with a horseman on horseback, a sword at his side and carrying a standard are evidence of the military service they rendered. From the Latvian National Costume Museum. Latvian War Museum. Riga. Latvia
