THE HERALDIC MEANING OF  SUPPORTERS

These are often animals, mythical beats (such as unicorns) or savages, as in the Durie of Durie Arms shown here.

Strictly speaking, Supporters are usually reserved for the holders of the older baronies (chartered before 1587) and those which have been in continuous family ownership, and are normally granted only to Peers, Clan Chiefs and those of rank of Knight Grand Cross and above 

Supporters are granted to Companies established by Royal Charter or an Act of' Parliament

In England, Supporters are reserved for the peerage, and a Scottish Baron (who is not a peer) will not be allowed Supporters in Arms granted by the College of Heralds

The supporters in the Durie of Durie Arms are described as:

Two savages proper Wreathed about two loins all proper