Matthai family crest and coat of arms

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Meaning of the Matthai 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 Matthai 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.

Matthai name meaning and origin

Matthai is a surname of Germanic origin, often derived from the given name Matthias. It signifies a connection to the Hebrew name Mattityahu, meaning gift of God. Historically, families with this name are associated with various regions in Germany and may have Jewish lineage.

History of family crests like the Matthai 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.

Matthai name variations and their meaning

Among the variations of the family name Matthai, one can find intriguing forms such as Matthey in French-speaking regions and Matteo in Italian contexts, reflecting linguistic adaptations that occurred from the late Middle Ages through the Renaissance. In the 17th century, as German-speaking populations migrated, Matthäus emerged in Germany, showcasing the evolution influenced by local dialects and phonetic shifts. Meanwhile, the 19th century saw the name transform into Matheis in Dutch communities, influenced by a characteristic Dutch affinity for simplifying names. Across the centuries, the intricacies of spelling and pronunciation have been shaped by cultural exchanges and historical developments, leading to variants like Mathias in Scandinavian regions, which gained popularity during the Protestant Reformation. Each iteration of Matthai reveals a rich tapestry of linguistic history that reflects societal changes and regional characteristics over time.

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