The O’Carolan 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 O’Carolan
O’Carolan is a distinguished Irish surname derived from the Gaelic Ó Cearbhalláin, meaning "descendant of Cearbhallán" (a diminutive of Cearbhall, signifying "valiant in battle"). Originating as a powerful sept in the ancient kingdom of Meath and expanding across County Cavan and Ulster, the family produced noted scholars, chieftains, and bards. Over centuries of English rule and emigration, the Gaelic prefix O' was frequently dropped, giving rise to both O’Carolan and Carolan forms in historical records.
The symbolism of the O’Carolan coat of arms
The coat of arms displays an argent (silver) shield field adorned with classic black ermine spots, crossed diagonally by a sable (black) bend charged with three golden pheons (spearheads) pointing upward. In classical heraldry, ermine represents moral purity, dignity, and judicial honor, while sable denotes wisdom and constancy.
The golden pheons (spearheads) symbolize warrior readiness, strategic precision, and unyielding defense of clan territories.
Surmounting the shield is a steel tournament helmet framed by fluid black and silver mantling. Anchoring the artwork, the golden motto ribbon displays the Latin In fide et in bello fortis ("Strong in faith and in war"). Officially cataloged in Ulster's Office of Arms and Burke’s General Armory.
Historical figures
Turlough O'Carolan (1670–1738): Celebrated blind Irish harper, composer, and poet widely regarded as Ireland's national composer.
Hugh O'Carolan (16th century): Prominent Irish ecclesiastic appointed Bishop of Clogher during the Tudor era.
Nicholas Carolan (b. 1948): Renowned Irish musicologist, author, and founding director of the Irish Traditional Music Archive.
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. ⚜️
