Coats of Arms by House of Names
Email To A Friend
Add to favorites   Print   
Text Size
Symbolism > merchant's mark

merchant's mark

Since those involved in trade were not formerly allowed to bear arms merchants adopted marks, which they used in much the same way that modern exporters use labels or logos to establish ownership of goods in a mixed cargo. They were often composed of initials or other special letters intertwined, and the marks were often family property, passed on when the son assumed or inherited the business. As the merchant class increased in wealth and power, these marks began to appear on heraldic shields. They are frequently found in stained glass, on brasses, carved in wood or stone.

Copyright © 2000 - 2009 Swyrich Corporation, all rights reserved

Symbolism Search:   

Tools

E-Newsletters:



 
Home   |   Customer Service   |   Site Map   |   Surname Search   |   How To Buy