The Graves 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 Graves
Graves is an ancient English topographic and official surname derived either from Old English græf (meaning "grove" or "ditch/trench") or Old Norse greve (meaning "steward" or "reeve"). Originating in Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Gloucestershire, and Thanet (Kent), families bearing the Graves name established early manorial estates and served as civic magistrates following the 1066 Norman Conquest. Codified early in administrative rolls, the name appears in the 1273 Hundred Rolls of Lincolnshire.
The symbolism of the Graves coat of arms
Visually striking and imperial, the Graves coat of arms features a red shield charged with a central golden crowned eagle displayed with spread wings. In classical heraldry, the red shield symbolises martial valour and fortitude, while the golden crowned eagle represents imperial authority, acute vision, high intellect, and royal favor. The formal recognition of this coat of arms was recorded in the 16th-century Heralds' Visitations of Yorkshire and Lincolnshire and catalogued in Burke's General Armory.
Historical figures
Sir John Graves (16th Century): English magistrate and High Sheriff recorded in county charters.
Mary Graves (17th Century): Gentlewoman and recorded benefactor in Lincolnshire parish registers.
Admiral Thomas Graves, 1st Baron Graves (1725–1802): Famed British Royal Navy officer and naval commander.
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.
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. ⚜️
