The Ray 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 Ray
Ray (Raye / MacRae) is an ancient English, Scottish, and Irish surname of multiple historical origins: derived from Anglo-Norman French rey / roi (meaning "king," originally bestowed as a nickname for a regal leader or victor of manorial contests) or serving as an Anglicised form of Gaelic Mac Rae ("son of grace") or Ó Riabhach ("swarthy warrior"). Establishing early seats across Wiltshire, Cumberland, and Scotland, the House of Ray held respected standing as landholders, naturalists, and scholars. Codified early in feudal records, the name appears in the 1273 Hundred Rolls of Oxfordshire (Ralph le Rey).
The symbolism of the Ray coat of arms
Visually pure and forest-inspired, the Ray coat of arms features a vibrant green shield charged with three leaping argent / silver or white stags or harts (harts salient) with golden antlers (two in chief, one in base). In classical heraldry, the green field symbolises hope, vitality, and deep roots in ancestral soil, while the three leaping silver stags denote swift alertness, forest lordship, harmony, peace, and fierce defense when cornered. Positioned above the shield, the crest displays a standing silver stag or hart with golden antlers, symbolising keen vigilance, forest command, and noble standing. Below, the motto scroll displays In omnia promptus, translating to "Ready for all things." The formal recognition of this coat of arms was recorded in British heraldic registers and catalogued in Burke's General Armory.
Historical figures
John Ray (1627–1705): World-famous English naturalist, botanist, and "Father of English Natural History."
Lady Elizabeth Ray (18th Century): Recorded gentlewoman and benefactor in Wiltshire estate rolls.
Martha Ray (1742–1779): Renowned English singer and prominent social figure.
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. ⚜️
