The Harper Family Crest beer glass. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.
Nicely suited for the moments that call for a proper toast. 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 Harper
Harper is an honored occupational surname of English, Scottish, and Irish origin, derived from the Old English hearpere and the Gaelic Cruitire. The name originally designated an official hereditary court harper or minstrel to royal houses, Gaelic chieftains, and Anglo-Norman lords. Holding privileged noble status, the family was granted hereditary lands in exchange for composing state poetry and martial airs. Early historical records document William le Harper in the 1273 Hundred Rolls of England and Uthred le Harper in the 1296 Ragman Rolls of Scotland, while Irish branches established early seats in County Antrim and Kilkenny.
The symbolism of the Harper coat of arms
The Harper coat of arms features an argent (silver) shield enclosed by an engrailed sable (black) border, charged with a striking sable lion rampant holding a golden Celtic harp. In classical heraldry, argent denotes peace and sincerity, while sable signifies wisdom and unyielding constancy.
The black lion rampant represents fierce protection and noble strength, while the golden harp symbolizes ancient bardic authority, political composure, harmony, and artistic elevation.
Positioned above the shield, the crest displays dramatic black and gold feather plumes rising from a golden coronet set upon a torse. Framed by fluid sable and gold mantling, this formal registration is preserved in the Office of the Chief Herald in Dublin, the Court of the Lord Lyon in Edinburgh, and Burke’s General Armory.
Historical figures
Sir William Harper (1496–1574): Lord Mayor of London (1561) and prominent merchant philanthropist who endowed Bedford School.
Robert Harper (1713–1782): Irish-born builder, trader, and mill operator who established the historic settlement of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.
James Harper (1795–1869): American publisher who co-founded Harper & Brothers publishing house and served as Mayor of New York City in 1844.
Product details
- Classic sturdy pint glass with family crest
- Volume: 16 oz (473 ml)
- High heat from the dishwasher or microwave may damage the print, so please hand-wash only.
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. ⚜️
