Why do we call it a Crest?
A crest is one piece of armorial bearings.
It is named thus because it crests a coat of arms, sitting
upon a helmet like a bird’s crest rests on its head.
A family crest on a coat of arms appears beneath the family
motto and rests within the torse, a wreath of cloth, upon the helm, or helmet.
Crests were originally more elaborate then they often are now,
expanding into the mantling that surrounds the helm.
Many family crests still incorporate this traditional feature
as a tribute to the historical significance of the family
crest and full coat of arms. In history, the first crests were
painted on metal fans and imitated the coat of arms depicted
on the shield, the most prominent component of a coat of arms.
At times, coronets, which most frequently form the base of the helm, take the place of the torse and
sometimes act as the full crest. At times, crests also amalgamate with coronets forming crest-coronets,
which are essentially stylized bunches of eight leaves, or four in the case of ‘ducal’ coronets.
Objects Borne as Crests
Crests are often depictions of animals, the most common of which is the lion,
but can also be human figures. Both of these are often represented from only the waist up.
Parts of human figures, such as the hands or arms, are also often displayed holding weapons.
Other common objects borne on family crests are the wings of birds.
Finally, curved horns or a hat holding plumes or flowers. The significance of these images,
because they are so prevalent amongst heraldic badges and coat of arms, comes from their
interpretation as one part of the whole of a coat of arms or in combination with a family motto and shield.
Display Your Family Crest and Pride
Your family crest is an inheritance from your ancestors.
It is the most important symbol for clans and, as it pairs with the shield, the most prominent display in
your coat of arms. Family crests are of extreme historic significance, because they were the original coat of arms
to many. You can honour your heritage and display pride in your family by adorning yourself
with your family crest, in the form of family seal and family crest rings.
A Coat of Arms is sometimes also called a Family Shield, Family Seal or Family Crest.
Contacting us
If you would like more information or advice about a specific item then please
complete our contact form or email us at info@family-pride.org
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