Meaning of the Mattison family crest symbols
Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.
Weapon - Arrowhead
The arrow signifies the early family's readiness for battle and affliction when threatened. It stands as a testament to family member’s success during times of war and a warning to those we may cross them.
Meaning of the Mattison 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Mattison name meaning and origin
Mattison is a surname of English origin. It is a patronymic name derived from the personal name Matthew, which means 'gift of God'. The suffix 'son' indicates 'son of', hence Mattison can be interpreted as 'son of Matthew'. This name was popular in medieval England and later spread across Europe.
History of family crests like the Mattison 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.
Mattison name variations and their meaning
The family name Mattison has several variations that have emerged over time. One common variation is Matson, which is believed to have originated from the same root name. Another variation is Matteson, which is a slightly altered form of the original name. This variation may have been influenced by regional dialects or pronunciation differences. Additionally, the name Mattison may have been anglicized to Mattisson or Matthison in certain regions or by specific branches of the family. These variations could have been the result of migration or cultural assimilation. It is also possible that different branches of the family adopted different spellings of the name over time, leading to variations such as Mattyson or Matyson. Regardless of the specific variation, all of these forms of the family name Mattison likely share a common ancestral origin.
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