Royal Supporters

E.C. asks when and why the unicorn was introduced as one of the royal supporters. It was introduced by James VI. of Scotland when he ascended the throne of England, on account of the Scottish royal supporters being two unicorns rampant argent, crowned with imperial, and gorged with antique, crowns, with chains affixed to the latter passing between their forelegs and reflexed over their backs, unguled, armed, and crined, all or; the dexter one embracing and bearing up a banner of gold charged with the royal arms; the sinister, another banner azure, charged with the cross of St. Andrew, argent.…