The Hinckaert knot, a type of decorative

unknot In the mathematical theory of knots, the unknot, not knot, or trivial knot, is the least knotted of all knots. Intuitively, the unknot is a closed loop of rope without a knot tied into it, unknotted. To a knot theorist, an unknot is any embe ...

, is a

heraldic knot A heraldic knot (referred to in heraldry as simply a knot) is a knot, unknot, or design incorporating a knot used in European heraldry. While a given knot can be used on more than one family's achievement of arms, the family on whose coat the kno ...

used primarily in Dutch heraldry. It is most notable for its appearance on the Hinckaert family

heraldic badge A heraldic badge, emblem, impresa, device, or personal device worn as a badge indicates allegiance to, or the property of, an individual, family or corporate body. Medieval forms are usually called a livery badge, and also a cognizance. They are ...

, where a semi-angular form is used as

canting arms Canting arms are heraldic bearings that represent the bearer's name (or, less often, some attribute or function) in a visual pun or rebus. French heralds used the term (), as they would sound out the name of the armiger. Many armorial all ...

, a common practice with heraldic badges. The name "Hinckaert" is delineated as a derivation of ''hincken'', "to limp", in the badge. Hence the center crutch, and the buckle on the knot, implying that it is a strap used to attach the crutch to the leg. The dexter "P" and sinister "G" are traditionally translated as standing for Philip (Hinckaert), with whom the knot originated, and his wife,

née A birth name is the name of a person given upon birth. The term may be applied to the surname, the given name, or the entire name. Where births are required to be officially registered, the entire name entered onto a birth certificate or birth re ...

Gasparine.

References

Decorative knots Heraldic charges Heraldic knots {{Heraldry-stub