Plate Number and Description The crest on Plate 7, Image 10 (Pl. 7. cr. 10.) is primarily described as a dexter hand apaumée (open, palm facing forward), proper. There are variations listed for specific families, such as holding a sword or being an arm rather than just a hand.
Surnames Associated with this Crest
- Althoun (England)
- Brace (Doverdale)
- Duncanson (Scotland)
- Fitz Herbert (Lord St Helens)
- Gayner (England)
- Gaynor (England)
- Handyside (Scotland)
- Handysyde (London)
- Landen (England)
- Lilly (England)
- Mare (England)
- Middleton (Essex)
- Patrick (Scotland)
- Prescot (England)
- Sibbald (Scotland)
- Sibhald (Aberdeen)
- Watson (Causlatt, Scotland)
Symbolism of the Crest Dexter Hand Apaumée: The open hand (apaumée) showing the palm is a symbol of justice, faith, sincerity, and innocence. It signifies that the bearer has nothing to hide and offers friendship or truth. Dexter (Right) Hand: Specifically represents the hand of faith, trust, and pledge. Arm/Hand: Generally represents a hardworking and industrious person. Sword (for Gay): Represents military honor, power, and freedom; often granted to those who have served their country in battle. Water Budget (for Mack): A distinct heraldic charge representing bags used to carry water during the Crusades; it symbolizes military service and logistics in arid lands.
General Symbolic Meanings The predominant symbol of the open hand suggests a lineage that valued transparency, honesty, and trust above aggression. It implies a pledge of faith or a readiness to uphold justice without concealment. Where the sword appears, it modifies this meaning to suggest that while peace and honesty are preferred, the bearer is ready to defend those principles with force if necessary.