Meaning of the Janus 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.
Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Janus 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Janus name meaning and origin
Janus is a surname with a rich historical background. It originates from the Roman mythology where Janus was the god of beginnings, gates, transitions, time, duality, doorways, passages, and endings. He is usually depicted as having two faces, since he looks to the future and to the past. The name is used symbolically in modern contexts to represent duality or the juxtaposition of two opposing concepts. It's a name that carries a sense of balance, transition, and understanding.
History of family crests like the Janus 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.
Janus name variations and their meaning
The family name Janus has various intriguing variations that have evolved over time. These variations reflect the diverse cultural influences and linguistic adaptations across different regions. One common variation is Janusz, which is often found in Polish and Slavic communities. Another variation is Janos, which is commonly seen in Hungarian and Romanian cultures. In Scandinavian countries, the name is sometimes spelled Jansson or Jansen. In English-speaking countries, the name is often anglicized to Johnson or Jones. Additionally, the name can be found in Spanish-speaking countries as Jano or Janes. These variations demonstrate how the name Janus has been adapted and modified to suit different languages and cultural contexts. Each variation carries its own unique charm and history, adding to the richness and diversity of the Janus family name.
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
