The MacMahon Family Crest mug. 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 origin of the name MacMahon
MacMahon (MacMahon of Monaghan / MacMahon of Clare) is a legendary Gaelic Irish clan surname derived from Mac Mathghamhna (meaning "son of the bear"). Establishing two premier royal lineages in medieval Ireland, the MacMahons of Monaghan ruled as Chieftains of Oriel, while the MacMahons of Clare descended from King Brian Boru's Thomond dynasty. Ruling from mountain strongholds and castles across Ulster and Munster, the clan produced renowned military commanders, marshals, and statesmen recorded in the Annals of the Four Masters.
The symbolism of the MacMahon coat of arms
Visually unique and resolute, the MacMahon coat of arms features an argent / silver or white shield charged with a central black ostrich walking, holding a golden horseshoe in its beak. In classical Gaelic heraldry, the silver shield symbolises sincerity and unblemished judicial purity. The ostrich holding a golden horseshoe serves as a famous emblem of extraordinary resilience, invincibility under hardship, digestion of adversity, and unwavering fortitude under trial. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a bare arm holding a silver sword erect behind a black fleur-de-lis, symbolising knightly justice and noble allegiance. Below, the motto scroll displays So dorn dona dhubhfuillibh, translating from Irish Gaelic to "Here is a blow for the black blood." The formal recognition of this coat of arms was registered in the Ulster Office of Arms at Dublin Castle.
Historical figures
Hugh Oge MacMahon (1606–1641): Irish Gaelic leader and officer involved in the 1641 Rebellion.
Lady Mary MacMahon (18th Century): Recorded noblewoman and landholder in Monaghan parish rolls.
Patrice de MacMahon, Duke of Magenta (1808–1893): Famed French general and President of the French Republic (descended from the Clare MacMahons).
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. ⚜️
