Alexander Family Crest framed artprint

The Alexander Family Crest framed artprint. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.

Whether it’s a gift to celebrate a milestone birthday, a wedding or a housewarming—this piece is an instant heirloom.

The origin of the name Alexander

Alexander derives from the classical Greek Alexandros, carrying the noble meaning "defender of men." Introduced to Scotland in the 11th century by Queen Margaret, it became a royal clan name established by Clan MacAlexander of Menstrie (Earls of Stirling). Over the centuries, the family established major seats across the Scottish Highlands, Lowlands, and throughout Ulster during the 17th-century plantations.

The symbolism of the Alexander coat of arms

The symbols on the Alexander family crest include a Gaelic harp – a symbol of peace and contemplation, a gold star representing piety, wisdom and virtue, and a crescent moon to denote being ‘enlightened and honoured by his sovereign’. These elements are separated by a split black and white chevron (meaning ‘rafter’ in French) to signify safety and protection. The silver signifies peace and sincerity, while blue represents loyalty and truth. Below the shield, the ancient family motto, Per mare per terras, translates to "By sea and by land." The earliest official evidence and recognition of the ancestral Alexander arms appears in 16th-century Scottish Lyon Court armorial charters.

Historical figures

Sir William Alexander (c. 1567–1640): 1st Earl of Stirling, poet, and statesman who was granted the original royal charter for Nova Scotia.
Cecil Frances Alexander (1818–1895): Acclaimed Irish hymnwriter and poet who penned beloved classics including All Things Bright and Beautiful.
Field Marshal Harold Alexander (1891–1969): 1st Earl Alexander of Tunis, distinguished military commander and 17th Governor General of Canada.

Product details

Ayous wood 0.75″ (1.9 cm) thick frame from renewable forests
Paper thickness: 10.3 mil (0.26 mm)
Paper weight: 189 g/m²
Lightweight & acrylite front protector
Hanging hardware included

No Warehouses. No Waste. Just for you, made to order

This product is printed especially for you when ordered, one at a time, by royal decree of Mother Nature to keep the realm beautiful. Family Crests Store guarantees your custom treasure meets all EU and USA safety standards.

About the artist

Each coat of arms in the Family Crests Store is an artwork by heraldic artist Éamonn Breathnach. All are carefully researched, drawing from the earliest available records across multiple heraldic archives. Noted for their elegance and attention to detail, these artworks make meaningful gifts for family occasions.