The McGrath 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 McGrath
McGrath (MacGrath / Mac Craith) is a legendary Gaelic Irish clan surname derived from Mac Craith (meaning "son of grace" or "son of divine prosperity"). Originating as hereditary poets, historians, and church leaders to the royal O'Brien dynasty of Thomond (County Clare and Waterford) as well as the O'Neills of Ulster (Donegal and Fermanagh), the McGraths held major landed seats at Termon McGrath (Lough Derg) and Sleady Castle (Waterford).
The symbolism of the McGrath coat of arms
Visually complex and chivalric, the McGrath coat of arms features a shield partitioned quarterly: the 1st silver quarter bears three walking red lions in pale; the 2nd golden quarter displays a hand issuing from a cloud holding a blue cross; the 3rd red quarter bears a hand holding a battle-axe; the 4th silver quarter features a walking black antelope or gazelle. In Gaelic heraldry, the silver field and three red lions symbolise heroic courage, sincerity, and royal Thomond lineage. The arm holding a cross denotes unyielding faith, while the arm with a battle-axe represents armed readiness and defense. The black antelope in base signifies swift alertness, agility, and grace under trial. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a striking plume of red and silver feathers, symbolising noble elevation. Below, the motto scroll displays Solus in fide, translating to "Alone in faith." The formal recognition of this coat of arms was registered in the Ulster Office of Arms.
Historical figures
Miler McGrath (1523–1622): Famed Archbishop of Cashel and prominent Tudor political figure.
Lady Sarah McGrath (17th Century): Recorded noblewoman of Sleady Castle, County Waterford.
John McGrath (1838–1910): Irish-born military officer awarded the Victoria Cross.
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. ⚜️
