Meaning of the Bowermaster 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.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Bowermaster 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.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Bowermaster name meaning and origin
Bowermaster is a surname of Germanic origin, possibly derived from the Middle High German term "bûr" meaning farmer or dwell. It suggests an ancestral connection to agricultural practices, indicating that early bearers may have been masterful overseers or owners of farmsteads or estates.
History of family crests like the Bowermaster 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.
Bowermaster name variations and their meaning
The family name Bowermaster has seen intriguing variations across different cultures and languages throughout the centuries. In Germany, for instance, you might encounter Baummeister, where "Baum" means tree, reflecting a regional adaptation that underscores the association with nature, originating primarily during the 16th century. Similarly, in the Netherlands, the variant Bouwermeester emerged in the 17th century, melding local linguistic elements while retaining the essence of mastery in agriculture or craftsmanship. In the British Isles, especially during the 18th century, Bowerman became more common, possibly influenced by the shift in English phonetics and regional dialects that favored a more simplified form of surnames. Crossing over to Slavic regions, one might find variants like Bowerski, which showcases the addition of a Slavic suffix that conveys a sense of belonging or origin, further evolving in the 19th century amid the socio-political changes in Eastern Europe. This etymological journey highlights how the Bowermaster family name has not only adapted to local languages but has also transformed in meaning and usage relative to the historical context of its speakers, demonstrating the rich tapestry of human identity through naming conventions.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
