There are a variety of symbols that may appear on your family crest, or coat of arms. Some are easily recognizable, such as a color, or an animal. It makes sense to infer certain ideas based on characteristics we tend to attribute to these things. Purple is a color that many of us associate with royalty. We consider a fox to be a wise creature. Therefore, when we see the color purple, or a fox appear on a coat of arms, we automatically understand what it means. What about less recognizable symbols?
Sometimes, it is not as obvious what the meaning is behind an image that appears on a family crest. A bird, no matter what color, symbolizes peace, and represents the affection of home and family. Specific birds, however, can signify an entirely different meaning. A cock, (or male bird), is the symbol of courage and perseverance. The crane is a symbol of vigilance. A crow is the symbol of a good strategist in battle, or may be a symbol of a quiet life. A swan can signify dignity, a musical person, and may have a religious connotation if it appears on an Irish crest. These are just a few of the many kinds of birds that might appear on your family crest.
If a family crest has a fish on it, it might be a symbol for a generous mind, or that a family comes from royal origin. There is also a Christian connotation and a Celtic meaning that can be derived from a fish. A dolphin is the symbol of affection, and charity. A scallop shell represents a successful commander, or fidelity. A seahorse represents power over the water.
Fur from a certain kind of animal might also appear on a family crest. An ermine is a short tailed weasel. In winter it’s coat is white. This fur appears on a coat of arms as a white background with black spots. On the other hand, if the summer coat of an ermine is shown, it will appear as a black background with white spots. An ermine’s coat may also appear as a gold background with black spots, and will be called an erminois. A Pean is a representation of the fur of an ermine that appears as a black background with gold spots. Each of these variations are a symbol of nobility. They may appear in one or more of the divisions on the shield part of a coat of arms.
Image by law_keven on Flickr