The Bowman Family Crest mug. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.
Eminently suited for a proper brew! Whether it’s a gift to mark a milestone birthday, a new home, or Christmas morning — here’s an artwork with history in your hands.
The origin of the name Bowman
Bowman is an ancient occupational surname of English and Scottish origin, derived from the Old English boga (bow), referring to an archer, bow maker, or man-at-arms skilled with the longbow. Crucial to medieval defense and manorial hunting, bowmen held prominent positions across the feudal realms of Northumberland, Yorkshire, and the Scottish Borders. Codified in early administrative rolls following the Norman Conquest, the surname appears in the 1279 Hundred Rolls of Northumberland (Adam le Bouman) and the 1332 Subsidy Rolls of Cumberland.
The symbolism of the Bowman coat of arms
Visually striking and martial, the Bowman coat of arms features a radiant gold shield charged with a bold red chevron set between three drawn archery bows with arrows. In classical heraldry, the gold shield signifies generosity and elevation of mind, while the red chevron represents structural protection and military command. The three drawn bows symbolise skill, readiness, and vigilant defense of the realm. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a leather quiver of arrows backed by green oak leaves and acorns. Below, the motto scroll displays Numine et arcu, translating to "By Divine Providence and the bow." This armorial layout is catalogued in Burke's General Armory (1884) for Bowman of Hethleton, Dorset, and Scotland.
Historical figures
Sir William Bowman (1816–1892): Eminent English surgeon, histologist, and anatomist famed for discovering Bowman's capsule in the kidney.
Thomas Bowman (1817–1914): Prominent American Methodist bishop and Chaplain of the United States Senate.
Christopher Bowman (1967–2008): World-class American figure skater and two-time U.S. National Champion.
Product details
- High quality white ceramic mug with the family crest printed two sides
- Dishwasher and microwave safe
- 15 oz mug dimensions: 4.7″ (11.9 cm) in height, 3.3″ (8.5 cm) in diameter
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.
Don’t see your family name?
I’m always happy to add new crests and products to the collection, so please get in touch if you can’t find what you're looking for. ⚜️
