The crest on Plate 2, Crest 8 (Pl. 2. cr. 8.) is described as a hawk (or falcon) close (standing with wings folded against the body), often detailed as belled (with bells on its legs) and jessed (leather straps). Some variations include the bird as a dove or other specific birds, as noted below.
Surnames Associated with this Crest
- Bolton (Suffolk / England)
- Brabon (Devonshire)
- Braboume (Devonshire / London)
- Chambers (Baron Tartas)
- Colepeper (England)
- Culpeper (Lord Thorneway)
- Drummond (Lord Maderty / England)
- Dubois (England)
- Gulline (Scotland) [Dove]
- Hawk (England)
- Hewson (England)
- Lacon (Audly, Essex / Ryby, Lincolnshire / Monstow / Kinlett, Shropshire / London)
- M’Eniery (Ireland/Scotland)
- M’Morran (Scotland)
- Sparhawk (England)
- Watt (Scotland)
- Webber (Scotland)
- Yanworth (Suffolk)
Symbolism of the Crest
Falcon (or Hawk): The falcon is a classic symbol of eagerness, pursuit, and one who does not rest until their objective is achieved. It was a bird of aristocracy and sport, signifying a person of high spirit and noble nature. Close: When depicted “close” (wings folded), it suggests patience and latent power, a readiness to act when the moment is right rather than impulsive action. Belled and Jessed: The presence of bells and jesses (leather straps used in falconry) symbolizes discipline and training; it indicates that the bearer possesses high capabilities but is governed by wisdom or duty, rather than wild instinct.
General Symbolic Meaning
The image of the belled falcon combines the concepts of high ambition with disciplined service. It suggests a lineage that values readiness and tactical patience over brute force. In heraldry, it often implies that the bearer is a person of keen vision and swift action, yet remains reliable and steadfast under authority or duty.