Bishop Family Crest framed artprint

The Bishop 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 Bishop

Bishop is an ancient English occupational and habitational surname derived from the Old English biscop (from the Greek episkopos, meaning overseer or guardian). In medieval society, the name was originally given to individuals employed in a bishop's household or manorial estate, as well as those who played the ceremonial role of a bishop in medieval mystery plays and festivals. Codified across England following the Norman Conquest, the surname established early seats in Oxfordshire, Devon, and Dorset, appearing in the 1195 Pipe Rolls of Oxfordshire and the 1273 Hundred Rolls of Norfolk.

The symbolism of the Bishop coat of arms

Displayed upon an argent / silver or white shield, the Bishop coat of arms features a red diagonal sash (bend) bordered by red accent lines (cotises) and charged with three radiant gold spheres (besants). In classical heraldry, the argent / silver or white shield denotes peace, sincerity, and purity of purpose, while the red sash signifies military fortitude and architectural protection. The three gold spheres symbolise wisdom, high civic standing, and trust. Positioned above the helm, the crest displays a golden eagle's head between green laurel branches. Below, the motto scroll displays Pro Deo et ecclesia, translating to "For God and church." This armorial layout is catalogued in Burke's General Armory (1884) for Bishop of Dorset and Devon.

Historical figures

Sir Henry Bishop (1786–1855): English composer who wrote the famous ballad 'Home! Sweet Home!' and served as Professor of Music at Oxford University.
William Bishop (1553–1624): English clergyman who served as the first Roman Catholic bishop after the English Reformation.
Isabel Bishop (1902–1988): Acclaimed American painter and graphic artist known for her realistic urban depictions of New York City.

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.