Plate Number and Description The crest on Plate 5, Image 5 (Pl. 5. cr. 5.) is described as a dexter hand couped, lying fessways, gules. Variations included in this grouping describe it as a hand couped in fess, or a dexter hand couped fessways.
Surnames Associated with this Crest
- Bree (England)
- Brandestou (England)
- Culliver (England)
- Hogg (Scotland)
- Witt (England)
Symbolism of the Crest
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Dexter Hand: The dexter hand (right hand) is a symbol of faith, sincerity, and justice. It is traditionally the hand used to give a pledge or take an oath.
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Couped: The term couped indicates that the hand is cut cleanly in a straight line, rather than erased (torn), suggesting a deliberate distinctiveness.
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Fessways: Lying fessways (horizontally) suggests a position of rest or placement, perhaps implying a hand resting upon an object to swear an oath or give a pledge.
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Gules (Red): The color gules signifies military fortitude, magnanimity, and a willingness to shed blood for one’s country or family.
General Symbolic Meanings The image of a red right hand implies a “bloody hand” or a hand of strong military resolve. While the “Red Hand” is famous in Irish heraldry, in this general context, a red hand lying fessways suggests a pledge of faith backed by martial strength. It signifies a lineage that is sincere in its promises and ready to defend them with force if necessary.