Meaning of the Mattheisen 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.

Tree
The great tree signifies a long lasting age of the family. It was used as an icon of ultimate strength and endurance. It represents those families with grand heritage and their ability to last the test of time.
Meaning of the Mattheisen 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.
Mattheisen name meaning and origin
The family name Mattheisen is of German origin, deriving from the given name Matthias, which means gift of God. It reflects a lineage connected to Christian traditions, often associated with historical significance in regions where the name is prevalent, particularly in Germany and Scandinavia.
History of family crests like the Mattheisen 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.
Mattheisen name variations and their meaning
Among the variations of the family name Mattheisen, one can observe intriguing adaptations across different cultures and languages over the centuries. In Germany, the name may evolve into Mathiesen, reflecting a local phonetic preference that emerged particularly in the 18th century. As communities migrated, this variation often found its way into Scandinavian regions, leading to the derivation Matheisen in Denmark and Mathieson in Scotland during the 19th century, indicating a tendency to adapt surnames to match local dialects. Further, in the mid-20th century, the anglicization of names brought forth variations such as Mathies and Matthews, particularly in English-speaking countries, illustrating the blending of cultural identities. These adaptations reveal not only the linguistic shifts but also the socio-historical interactions influencing family names over time.
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
