The Porter 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 Porter
Porter (Le Porter) is an ancient Anglo-Norman occupational surname derived from Old French portier (a keeper, officer, or supervisor of a manorial gate or castle door, holding the keys and controlling entry to royal fortresses). Introduced to Britain during the 1066 Norman Conquest, the House of Porter established influential seats across Cumberland (Weary Hall), Warwickshire, and County Waterford in Ireland. Members served as High Sheriffs, Parliamentarians, and military officers. Codified early in feudal records, the name appears in the 1273 Hundred Rolls (Robert le Porter).
The symbolism of the Porter coat of arms
Visually pure and fortress-inspired, the Porter coat of arms features a black shield charged with three golden church or castle bells (two in chief, one in base). In classical heraldry, the black field symbolises deep wisdom, dignity, and unyielding constancy under trial. The three golden bells serve as a famous emblem of joyful proclamation, sacred duty, civic alert, and harmonious family unity across generations. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a golden portcullis with chains (portcullis chained or), serving as an iconic emblem of fortress defense, invincibility, holding the gates, and manorial hospitality. Below, the motto scroll displays Et fide et virtute, translating to "Both by faith and virtue." The formal recognition of this coat of arms was recorded in the Heralds' Visitations of Cumberland and catalogued in Burke's Landed Gentry.
Historical figures
Sir Endymion Porter (1587–1649): English diplomat, royal courtier, and patron of the arts to King Charles I.
Lady Anne Porter (17th Century): Recorded gentlewoman and benefactor in Cumberland land rolls.
Cole Porter (1891–1964): World-renowned American composer and songwriter.
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. ⚜️
