Fanion Explained

A fanion is a small flag used by the French military, equivalent to an American guidon or British company colour. The name derives from the Italian word gonfanone,^[1] or gonfanon.^{[2] [3]} They were often attached to a small staff which was placed in the muzzle of a rifle.

The regulation sizes were 50 cm x 40 cm for a battalion fanion, 40 x 30 for a company fanion, and 34 x 27 for a platoon fanion (the latter can also be a triangular pennant 30 x 40).^[4]

See also

• Colours, standards and guidons

Notes and References

1. James, Charles A New and Enlarged Military Dictionary, or, Alphabetical Explanation of Technical Terms Printed for T. Egerton at the Military Library, 1802
2. Web site: GONFANON Meaning (Definition) . 2012-05-10 . https://archive.today/20120913105105/http://www.meaningof.ca/Gonfanon . 2012-09-13 . dead .
3. p.339 Norris, Herbert Medieval Costume and Fashion Courier Dover Publications, 28/11/1998
4. Web site: Pennants of the Algerian Tirailleurs (French Army). flagspot.net.