The McDonnell 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 McDonnell
McDonnell (MacDonnell of Antrim) is the primary Irish and Scottish spelling variant of the royal Gaelic clan surname Mac Domhnaill. Descended from Somerled, King of the Isles, the clan established the powerful Principality of the Glens of Antrim in northeastern Ireland during the 14th century. Serving as Earls of Antrim and Chieftains of the Glens, the McDonnells commanded vast fleets and armies from their impregnable cliffside stronghold at Dunluce Castle.
The symbolism of the McDonnell coat of arms
Sharing the exact ancestral bearings of the royal Clan Donald and MacDonnell dynasty, the McDonnell coat of arms features a shield partitioned quarterly: the 1st silver quarter bears a red lion rampant; the 2nd golden quarter displays an arm issuing from a cloud holding a blue cross crosslet fitchee; the 3rd golden quarter bears a lymphad galley with oars in action; the 4th green quarter features a silver salmon swimming. In Gaelic heraldry, the red lion and silver field symbolise supreme courage and sincerity. The cross crosslet fitchee denotes sacred pledges, while the lymphad galley represents sea power, island lordship, and naval defense of Antrim coastlines. The silver salmon represents ancient Gaelic wisdom. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a plume of red and silver feathers, symbolising noble elevation. Below, the motto scroll displays Per mare per terras, translating to "By sea and by land." The formal recognition of this coat of arms was registered in the Ulster Office of Arms at Dublin Castle and catalogued in Burke's Peerage.
Historical figures
Dr. James McDonnell (1763–1845): Famed physician, philanthropist, and 'Father of Belfast Medicine'.
Lady Anne McDonnell (18th Century): Noblewoman and benefactor recorded in Glenarm Castle estate rolls.
General Sir Richard Graves McDonnell (1814–1881): Colonial governor and diplomat.
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. ⚜️
