Meaning of the Vasques family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
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 Vasques 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.
Vasques name meaning and origin
The surname Vasques is of Spanish and Portuguese origin, derived from the personal name Vasco, which means "Basque" or "from the Basque region." It reflects the family's geographical roots and heritage, often signaling connections to the Basque people in Spain and southwestern France.
History of family crests like the Vasques 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.
Vasques name variations and their meaning
Exploring the family name Vasques reveals a rich tapestry of variations influenced by linguistic and cultural shifts across centuries. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the surname morphed into Vasquez in Spain, reflecting the typical Spanish custom of adding suffixes to denote lineage. Meanwhile, during the 18th century, in Latin American regions, the name evolved into Vasquez and even Bassquez, showcasing regional phonetic adaptations. The 19th century saw the emergence of Vasques in Portuguese-speaking areas, where the linguistic fluidity allowed for different spellings to make the name feel more locally relevant. In the 21st century, the name continues to exhibit variations like Vasques in Brazil and Vasquez in the United States, demonstrating how immigrant communities have embraced and transformed their identities while maintaining connections to their ancestral roots. Each of these variations tells a story of cultural exchange and adaptation, enriching the meaning behind the name as it travels through time and geography.
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
