Ross Family Crest framed artprint

The Ross Family Crest framed and printed on museum-quality matte paper. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.

A meaningful gift for family occasions—whether it’s a milestone birthday, a housewarming or a wedding, this piece is an instant heirloom.

The origin of the name Ross

The surname Ross is a distinguished territorial name of Scottish Gaelic origin, derived directly from the ancient Celtic word ros, which translates to a "promontory" or "peninsula". This geographical term specifically described the long, narrow neck of land separating the Moray Firth from the Dornoch Firth in northeast Scotland. The family became firmly established in this peninsula during the twelfth century, taking their hereditary surname from the lands they ruled. As the family line expanded, the name stabilised across the Scottish Highlands and Lowlands as a major marker of regional nobility and territorial authority.

The symbolism of the Ross coat of arms

This specific armorial design is characterised by its striking, bold composition, using simple colors and a repeated animal charge to convey ancestral power, military ferocity, and sovereign status:

The Shield Colour: The solid red background (gules) traditionally represents military fortitude, warrior courage, and a willingness to shed blood in defence of the realm.

The Three White Lions: The shield features three white or silver lions standing upright on their hind legs (argent, three lions rampant). In traditional heraldry, the lion is regarded as the king of beasts, symbolising supreme martial bravery, tireless strength, and nobility. The use of three matching lions emphasises an exceptionally powerful family tree and a long lineage of command. The white or silver coloration denotes peace, sincerity, and purity of purpose.

Historical records and earliest evidence of creation

The Earliest Recording (1234): The design featuring three white lions rampant on a red field is directly traced back to the original Earls of Ross. The title was formally recognized and established by King Alexander II of Scotland in 1234, when it was granted to the first recorded clan chief, Fearchar Mac an t-Sagairt (meaning "son of the priest"), officially codifying these exact family arms.

The Battle of Bannockburn (1314): Under this identical red shield, the clan mobilized its forces during the Wars of Scottish Independence. Led by Fearchar's grandson, William (the 3rd Earl of Ross), the family fought decisively alongside King Robert the Bruce to defeat the English forces at the historic Battle of Bannockburn in 1314.

Notable Historical Figures

Fearchar Mac an t-Sagairt (died c. 1251): The 1st Earl of Ross and foundational progenitor of the armorial line, who was knighted by King Alexander II for successfully crushing a dangerous northern rebellion.

Sir John Ross Marshall (1912–1988): A prominent twentieth-century political descendant of the historic Ross-shire family tree who served as the 28th Prime Minister of New Zealand in 1972.

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.

Product details

• Printed using environmentally friendly water-based inks.
• Crafted with a .75″ (1.9 cm) thick Ayous wood frame sourced from renewable forests.
• Museum-quality matte paper with a thickness of 10.3 mil (0.26 mm).
• Paper weight: 189 g/m² ensuring durability and a premium feel.
• Protected by a clear Acrylite front to safeguard the artwork.
• Hanging hardware included for easy display.

No Warehouses. No Waste. Just for you, made to order.

This family crest is produced exclusively upon order, eliminating excess inventory and reducing overproduction. Family Crests Store guarantees that all products meet the stringent safety and quality standards set by the EU and USA.