The Dempsey 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 Dempsey
Dempsey is an ancient Gaelic Irish surname derived from Ó Diomasaigh, stemming from diomasach, meaning "proud" or "haughty." The Ó Diomasaigh sept was one of Leinster's most powerful royal ruling houses, holding the hereditary Chieftainship of Clanmalire across County Offaly and County Laois. The family built formidable strongholds along the River Barrow, played major roles in the Kilkenny Confederation, and was recorded extensively in the Annals of the Four Masters.
The symbolism of the Dempsey coat of arms
Commanding and martial, the Dempsey coat of arms features a vibrant red shield charged with a silver lion rampant set between two upright silver swords. In classical heraldry, the red shield symbolises martial valour and heroic fortitude, while the central silver lion denotes supreme courage and leadership. The two upright silver swords represent military defense, justice, and protection of clan lands. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a red lion rampant holding a silver sword aloft. Below, the motto scroll displays Elatum a Deo non deprimat, translating to "What God has raised, let no one depress." Catalogued in Edward MacLysaght’s Irish Families.
Historical figures
Dermot Ó Diomasaigh (d. 1193): King of Clanmalire who founded the Cistercian Monasterevin Abbey in County Kildare.
Lady Mary Dempsey (17th Century): Noblewoman of Clanmalire who defended family estates during the Irish Confederate Wars.
Terence Dempsey, 1st Viscount Clanmalire (c. 1650–1738): Prominent Gaelic nobleman and Jacobite military commander.
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. ⚜️
