O'Doherty Family Crest framed artprints

Celebrate your family heritage with a gift to cherish – the O'Doherty Family Crest framed and printed on museum-quality matte paper. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.

Symbolism of the O’Doherty coat of arms

The O’Doherty coat of arms stands as a distinguished emblem of northern Gaelic heraldry, reflecting the lineage’s historic dominion over the Inishowen Peninsula. Central to the shield is a Stag Trippant, symbolizing purity, agility, and the ancient quest for wisdom upheld by the family. This figure is set upon a field of Argent (silver/white), which represents peace and sincerity, while the Vert (green) chief at the shield’s summit signifies hope and steadfast loyalty to the homeland. Within this chief are three Mullets (stars), emblematic of divine favor and the clan’s distinct territorial branches.

Above the shield, the crest features a hand grasping a sword emerging from an Ancient Crown. This imagery formally declares the family’s sovereignty as Lords of Inishowen and their unwavering readiness to defend their domain. The motto, "Ar nDúchas," is notably expressed in the native Irish language rather than Latin, translating to "Our Heritage / Birthright / Homeland," underscoring the clan’s profound connection to their ancestral lands.

Origin of the O’Doherty name

The surname O’Doherty originates from the Gaelic Ó Dochartaigh, derived from the personal name Dochartach, meaning "obstructive" or "unyielding." This reflects the resolute character of the clan’s warrior ancestors. As direct descendants of Conall Gulban and the Northern Uí Néill, the family established a powerful lordship, transitioning from Raphoe to become the dominant force in Inishowen by the 14th century. Their historical influence is marked by governance from key strongholds such as Burt Castle, where they served as principal sub-kings under the O'Donnell dynasty.

The most notable historical figure linked to these arms is Sir Cahir O'Doherty (1587–1608), recognized as the last great Gaelic chief of Inishowen. Initially knighted by the English Crown, he later led a significant uprising in 1608, known as O'Doherty’s Rebellion, prompted by tensions with the Governor of Derry. His defeat marked the end of the Gaelic Order in Ulster. The heraldic crest was formally granted and recorded by the Office of the Ulster King of Arms, preserving the clan’s ancient symbols in official records from the 16th and 17th centuries.

About the artist

Each family crest featured on this site is a faithful reproduction of an original artwork by heraldic artist Éamonn Breathnach. Éamonn’s designs are carefully researched, drawing from the earliest heraldic archives to ensure historical accuracy and artistic elegance. These detailed artworks serve as meaningful and distinguished gifts for family and friends on any occasion.

Product details

• Printed with water-based inks.
• Ayous wood .75″ (1.9 cm) thick frame sourced from renewable forests.
• Paper thickness: 10.3 mil (0.26 mm).
• Paper weight: 189 g/m².
• Acrylite front protector for durability.
• Hanging hardware included for easy display.

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.