Beck Family Crest framed artprint

The Beck 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 Beck

Beck is an ancient topographic surname of Northern English, Norse, and Germanic origin, derived from the Old Norse bekkr or Old High German beck, meaning a brook or small stream. Originally assumed by families residing near flowing waters or manorial streams, the surname established early seats across Lincolnshire, Yorkshire, Norfolk, and continental Europe. It is documented in early medieval administrative rolls including the 1182 Pipe Rolls of Lincolnshire (Ricardus Becke) and the 1273 Hundred Rolls of Norfolk.

The symbolism of the Beck coat of arms

Richly quartered and symbolic, the Beck coat of arms features a four-part quarterly shield: the first quarter displays a black raven on a gold (or) field; the second and third quarters feature a gold star (mullet) on a black field; and the fourth quarter displays a golden dolphin naiant (swimming) on an azure / blue field. In heraldry, the raven signifies divine providence and sharp intellect, the golden stars denote noble ambition and light, while the dolphin symbolises swiftness, maritime vigilance, and charity. Positioned above the helm, the crest displays a red cross patée surmounted by a raven holding a golden ring in its beak. This armorial layout is documented in Burke's General Armory (1884) and J.B. Rietstap’s Armorial Général.

Historical figures

Anthony Beck (c. 1245–1311): Prince-Bishop of Durham and titular Patriarch of Jerusalem, legendary military prelate under King Edward I.
David Beck (1621–1656): Famed Dutch Golden Age portrait painter who served as court painter to Queen Christina of Sweden.
Sir Raymond Beck (1861–1945): Influential British insurance leader and Chairman of Lloyd's of London during World War I.

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.