The Howell 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 Howell
Howell is an ancient Welsh patronymic surname derived from the native Welsh personal name Hywel (meaning "eminent," "conspicuous," or "exalted"). Deeply rooted in Welsh history, the name honours King Hywel Dda ("Howell the Good"), the legendary 10th-century monarch who codified the native laws of Wales. Families bearing the Howell name established prominent seats across Pembrokeshire, Carmarthenshire, and Monmouthshire. Codified in early administrative rolls, the name appears in the 1273 Hundred Rolls of Shropshire (John ap Howell).
The symbolism of the Howell coat of arms
Visually bold and architectural, the Howell coat of arms features a red shield charged with three argent / silver or white triple-towered castles with golden gates (two in chief, one in base). In heraldry, the red field symbolises martial courage and fortitude, while the three silver castles denote fortress defense, architectural strength, and grand manorial hospitality. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a green dragon's head erased—an iconic emblem of ancient Welsh sovereignty, formidable power, and fierce protection of territory. Below, the motto scroll displays Tenax Propositi, translating to "Tenacious of purpose." The formal recognition of this coat of arms was recorded in the 16th-century Heralds' Visitations of Pembrokeshire and Monmouthshire and catalogued in Burke's General Armory.
Historical figures
King Hywel Dda / Howell the Good (d. 950): Legendary King of Wales and renowned codifier of Welsh laws.
Dame Elizabeth Howell (17th Century): Welsh noblewoman and philanthropist recorded in Pembrokeshire land charters.
James Howell (c. 1594–1666): Famed Welsh author, Historiographer Royal, and pioneer of English literature.
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. ⚜️
