Vak (emblem)

Vak are Ixanian emblems used to decorate and identify a family, clan, or individual. Vak is typically used as the umbrella term to denote all designs of the type, though vandak and vadik refer specifically to emblems representing families and clans.

Vak are similar to the European coat of arms and the Japanese mon, both which serve many of the same purposes, identifying family ties and cultural backgrounds. These devices are typically referred to be Western literature as crests, which to are similar to the vak is function.

History
Vak wre known to have existed in Ixania's past before the Seven Centuries' War. They appeared as markers on goods and clothing to display their points of origin and manufacturer. They soon grew to importance as emblems representing families in combat against their enemies, so as to give credit to those in the fighting. By the seventh century, vak were found everywhere in Ixania, often as tattoos used by the population. They were often times seen on flags, weapons, equipment, armor, and clothing as signs of ownership.

Unlike the heraldry of European aristocrats, vak were not reserved for nobles, and Ixanian commoners used them is everyday life. They were displayed on clothes to show their family origins and clan affiliation. During combat, vak were displayed on battle flags, shields, and army standards, a practice that grew during the N/A period. Guilds, organizations, theater troupes, and even criminal gangs used vak to identify themselves to others, and temples and shines were known to use them too.

Ixanian traditional wear (still the only clothing they will wear), display the vak of the wearer. Almost every Ixanian has one of their own, or shares the one of their family, the most common practice. So Ixanians have been known to make their own following weddings to denote their own family, especially common given the polygamous nature of Ixanian marriage. Few rules exist as to how one is too properly make a vak for themselves, though their designs are generally decided by society.

Design
No definite rules exist on how to make a vakm most are geometric in design, sometimes contained within a hexagon, diamond, or triangular piece. They often depict plant, animal, man-made, natural or celestial objects distorted to certains degree. Sharp curves and religious symbols are also used.

Vak are essentially monochrome; the color does not constitute part of the design and they may be drawn in any color.