The West Family Crest framed artprint. Beautifully illustrated. Carefully researched. Uniquely personal.
Whether it’s a gift to celebrate a milestone birthday, a wedding or a housewarming—this piece is an instant heirloom.
The origin of the name West
West is a classic surname of directional and toponymic origin, given to individuals who migrated from the west or lived toward the western part of a village or county. Widely established across Britain and Ireland following the Anglo-Norman settlements, early branches held feudal lands in Devon, Sussex, and Buckinghamshire. The lineage rose to high peerage status as Barons De La Warr and Earls De La Warr.
The symbolism of the West coat of arms
The West coat of arms displays a sable (black) shield crossed by a golden or fess dancettée (saw-toothed horizontal band), flanked by three golden leopard heads affrontee erased (two in chief, one in base). In heraldry, sable signifies wisdom and constancy, while gold denotes generosity and honor.
The fess dancettée represents fortitude under trial and defensive fortification, while the leopard heads symbolize keen foresight, bold courage, and swift defense.
Positioned above the shield on a gold and black torse, the crest features a golden griffin head rising from a coronet. The golden ribbon displays the French motto Jour de ma vie ("Day of my life"), celebrating a historic battle achievement. Cataloged in Burke’s General Armory.
Historical figures
Thomas West, 12th Baron De La Warr (1577–1618): English nobleman and first royal Governor of the Virginia Colony, after whom Delaware Bay and the state of Delaware were named.
Benjamin West (1738–1820): Celebrated Anglo-American historical painter and second President of the Royal Academy in London.
Rebecca West (1892–1983): Acclaimed British author, journalist, and literary critic.
Product details
- Ayous wood 0.75″ (1.9 cm) thick frame from renewable forests
- Paper thickness: 10.3 mil (0.26 mm)
- Paper weight: 189 g/m²
- Lightweight & acrylite front protector
- Hanging hardware included
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. ⚜️
