A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Borsari family of Italy.
Reg. 1533 · Italian, A–C
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
armA person of action, industrious and laborious
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
Colours
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
Gold (Or)Means: Generosity
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“D'azur à un dextrochère, paré de gu., mouv. du flanc, la main de carn. tenant une bourse ou sac d'or avec quatre rubans du même, deux à dextre et deux à sen.; au chef d'arg., ch. de trois étoiles (5) d'or.”
ItalyBologne, c. 1775
Where the Borsari Arms Were Recorded
Bologne
Map of Italy showing where the Borsari arms are recorded
The Borsari arms were recorded in Bologne, c. 1775.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in Italy in this period.
Alvise Giovanni Mocenigo
Sovereign of the period
Alvise Giovanni Mocenigo
1763–1778
Reigning in Italy when the Borsari arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Italy
In the Italian states, coats of arms were often used by noble families to show their status and history. These symbols were passed down through the generations to all legitimate male descendants. Younger branches of a family usually kept the original design but sometimes added small changes to distinguish their specific line from the main branch.
Granting authority
Various local rulers and city governments controlled the use of coats of arms across the different Italian states.
How they got arms
Families often assumed their own arms or received them as official grants from local lords, popes, or city councils.
Where arms were recorded
Arms were recorded in local city archives or private family books rather than in one single national register.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Italy.
Origin & History of the Borsari Family in Italy
The Borsari family name is deeply rooted in the history of northern Italy, with significant records placing the family in the city of Bologna by the year 1775. The name itself is thought to be occupational, likely derived from the Italian word "borsaro," which historically referred to a maker or seller of purses and leather goods. During the eighteenth century, Bologna was a prominent center for trade and craftsmanship, providing an ideal environment for families involved in specialized guilds. As the Borsari family established themselves within the city, they became part of the local urban fabric, contributing to the professional and social life of the region. Over time, the name transitioned from a description of a person’s trade to a permanent family surname that was passed down through generations.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Borsa
A pouch, purse, or bag used for carrying money.
This name
BorsariAn occupational surname for a maker or seller of purses and leather bags.
also spelled
Borsary
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Dizionario Storico-Blasonico delle Famiglie Nobili e Notabili Italiane, G.B. di Crollalanza, 1886
Archivio di Stato di Bologna, Serie: Anagrafe della popolazione, 1775
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
armA person of action, industrious and laborious
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
armA person of action, industrious and laborious
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
