The Howard 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 Howard
Howard is one of the most illustrious Anglo-Norman noble surnames in British history, derived from Old Norse Hávarðr ("high guardian") or Germanic Hughard ("heart-brave"). The House of Howard rose to premier aristocracy as Dukes of Norfolk, Premier Dukes and Hereditary Earl Marshals of England. Ruling vast ducal estates centered at Arundel Castle and Framlingham Castle, members of the family served as High Admirals, Lord Treasurers, and commanders of royal armies. Codified in early feudal rolls, the name appears in the 1273 Hundred Rolls of Norfolk (William Howard).
The symbolism of the Howard coat of arms
Commanding and chivalric, the Howard coat of arms features a red shield charged with a broad argent / silver or white diagonal band (bend) set between six silver cross crosslets fitchee (pointed at the base). In classical heraldry, the red field symbolises martial valour and sacrifice, while the silver bend represents knightly sashes of honour and sincerity. The six silver cross crosslets fitchee denote unyielding Christian faith, spiritual devotion rooted in soil, and defense of the realm. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a crowned golden lion standing upon a red cap of maintenance (chapeau)—symbolising supreme royal favor, ducal dignity, and heroic leadership. Below, the motto scroll displays Sola Virtus Invicta, translating to "Virtue alone is unconquered." The formal recognition of this coat of arms was recorded in the Heralds' Visitations of Norfolk and catalogued in Burke's Peerage.
Historical figures
Thomas Howard, 2nd Duke of Norfolk (1443–1524): Legendary English general and victor of the Battle of Flodden.
Lady Elizabeth Howard, Countess of Wiltshire (c. 1480–1538): Mother of Queen Anne Boleyn and grandmother of Queen Elizabeth I.
Lord Howard of Effingham (1536–1624): Lord High Admiral who commanded the English fleet against the Spanish Armada.
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. ⚜️
