Legal Definitions - mace-bearer

A mace-bearer is a person who carries a mace in front of an important official, usually someone of high rank. A mace is a weapon that was used in the past, consisting of a staff with a heavy metal head. Nowadays, a mace is used as an ornamental symbol of the dignity of an office, such as in Parliament or the U.S. House of Representatives.

• In the House of Commons, the mace is placed on the table when the Speaker is in the chair.
• In the U.S. House of Representatives, the mace is usually placed to the right of the Speaker and is carried upright by the sergeant-at-arms on special occasions, such as when there is a disturbance or when members need to be brought to order.

These examples illustrate how a mace is used as a symbol of authority and dignity in important settings. The mace-bearer is responsible for carrying the mace and presenting it before the official, emphasizing their importance and power.