A sword in pale

The image corresponds to Plate 2, Crest 6 (A sword in pale) or  (A dagger in pale). Both represent a weapon held upright.

Surnames:A sword in pale

  • Aberkerdour (Scotland)
  • Aberkerdor (Scotland)
  • Barclay (Pearston, Scotland)
  • Blan (Scotland)
  • Blane (Blanefield, Scotland)
  • Blean (Scotland)
  • Cazenove (England)
  • Dalziel (Earl of Carnwath)
  • Damer (England)
  • Dymock (Lincolnshire)
  • Gowan (Scotland)
  • Osburne (Peppermill)
  • Poyntz (England)
  • Roundell (Hutton Wansley, Yorkshire)
  • Scobie (England)
  • Toding (Scotland)
  • Todrig (Scotland)
  • Vintris (England)
  • Borston (England)
  • Buchanan (Auchleshie)
  • Cairncross (Balmashannon)
  • Coytmore (England)
  • Dalzell (England)
  • Durnford (England)
  • Macjuire (Ireland)
  • M’Quire (England)
  • Pring (England)
  • Thetford (England)
  • Winbolt (England)

Symbolism of the Crest Sword / Dagger: In heraldry, the sword is a weapon that symbolizes justice and military honor. It represents the power to wage war and the authority to administer justice. When depicted “in pale” (vertical), it signifies a readiness to serve and a stance of defense. Erect Position: The upright position of the weapon emphasizes vigilance and action, suggesting a family that is always prepared to defend its rights and principles. Gold Hilt (Pommel and Crossguard): The specific coloring of a steel blade with a gold hilt often denotes purity of purpose backed by generosity and elevation of mind.

General Symbolic Meanings The solitary sword is a potent symbol of executive power and righteous authority. Unlike a sword held in a hand (which emphasizes the act of wielding power), the standalone sword often represents the abstract concept of justice or the state of being prepared for conflict. It suggests a lineage that values honor, maintains a strong defensive posture, and upholds the law.