The Johnson Family Crest mug - with lions. 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 symbolism of the Johnson family crest
This historic coat of arms features a shield divided into four alternating sections of deep black and rich blue, brought together by a bold red diagonal cross, also known as a saltire. Arranged across this shield are two crossed gold spears, five watchful white roosters, and three gold towers completely engulfed in flames. While these symbols look dramatic, they carry very precise meanings backed by actual historical records. The diagonal cross (saltire) itself honors the faith and courage of Saint Andrew, while its striking red color is a classic emblem of the Cross of Saint Patrick, celebrating the family's deep Irish heritage. The five white roosters signify vigilance, courage, and a watchful guardian who aggressively defends his territory.
The most remarkable visual, the fire bursting from the three gold towers, is a direct factual tribute to the career of Rowland Johnson. As Queen Elizabeth I's master military surveyor, his job was to breach, burn down, and collapse hostile enemy strongholds near the Scottish border. The royal heralds custom-designed these flaming towers as a literal badge of honor to commemorate his spectacular success in siege warfare. The crossed gold spears further represent a constant readiness to protect the home. This entire protective theme is reinforced by the family crest positioned directly above the polished steel helmet, which features a white stone tower with a striking red rooster perched watchfully upon the battlements. Completing the powerful display is the family’s historic motto on the banner below, Nunquam non paratus, which translates simply to "Never unprepared," serving as a compelling testament to a family line built on unyielding vigilance.
The origin story of the Johnson name
The surname Johnson is a patronymic name, meaning it originally developed during the Middle Ages to identify an individual simply as the son of John. The personal name itself possesses ancient spiritual roots, deriving from the Hebrew name Yochanan, which translates historically to "God is gracious." While variations of the name spread rapidly across Europe following the Crusades, it solidified into a permanent, hereditary family surname across the British Isles during the 12th and 13th centuries, with early tax rolls documenting various branches established in northern England and along the Scottish borders.
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. ⚜️
