Bartholomew family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Bartholomew family crest symbols

Torse

The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.

Shield - Bordure

The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.

Meaning of the Bartholomew coat of arms colors

Silver

The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.

Red

The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.

Bartholomew name meaning and origin

The family name Bartholomew has roots in the Aramaic name Bar-Talmay, meaning son of Talmay. It is often associated with biblical origins, particularly the apostle Bartholomew. The name signifies a lineage connected to historical and religious significance, reflecting faith and heritage.

History of family crests like the Bartholomew coat of arms

Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.

The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.

The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.

Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.

Bartholomew name variations and their meaning

Variations of the family name Bartholomew showcase a fascinating linguistic evolution across different cultures and centuries. In Italian, the name often transforms into Bartolomeo, with the Renaissance period (15th-16th centuries) further solidifying its usage as a first name rather than a surname, making it popular among artists and thinkers. In France, the diminutive form Barthelemy emerged, reflecting the country's inclination to soften names during the 17th century, while in Spain, Bartolomé became common, influenced by the nation’s embrace of Latinized versions during the period of exploration in the 16th century. By the 18th century, regions like Eastern Europe saw the emergence of Bartosz in Poland, adapting to Slavic phonetics and demonstrating a dynamic interplay between cultural identity and language. Each variation not only represents a unique cultural interpretation but also reflects historical shifts in naming conventions across centuries.

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