Hatchments developed in the early 1600s from the Tudor custom of carrying a heraldic shield before the coffin in the funeral procession. The lozenge-shaped frame bears a family coat of arms, and would have been carried fixed to the side of the hearse or carriage. After the funeral it would have been placed over the main entrance of the house for up to twelve months as a sign of mourning, and then moved to the parish church as a reminder to pray for the family.