The
Clan Arthur crest is formed from: "Two laurel branches in orle
proper", more commonly known as a laurel wreath. In heraldic terms,
the enclosure of the branches is recognised as protective.
The laurel
wreath can immediately be associated with the Roman Caesars (as is "King"
Arthur) and is easily recognisable as an empirical emblem. It is the
symbol of the victor (the trait for which Arthur is acknowledged) and
was presented to the Olympians of ancient Greece. Until recently the
laurel wreath was still presented to the victor in Formula One motor
racing on the podium at the Grand Prix. A wreath bearing purple fruits
(as portrayed on the Clan Arthur badge) is representative of the highest
honour and is from where the expression of "Resting on your laurels"
is derived.
As with all
Scottish clans the crest is the property of the Chief and may be borne
by him alone, although in days gone by, the Chief's fighting men wore
his crest on a leather armlet to identify their allegiance. This device
gave rise to the modern clansman's badge - the crest worn surrounded
by a belt signifying a clansman in servitude to the chief.
Laurel is more commonly known as the Bay Tree (Laurus Nobilis) from which the bay leaf is obtained. The ancient priestesses of Delphi burnt bay leaves to induce prophetic trance, nowadays it is more frequently used as an ingredient of traditional Indian cuisine. As an evergreen tree ruled by the Sun and Jupiter the Bay Laurel carries the light of summer into darkest winter.
The Clan Motto "Fide
et Opera" originates from The New Testament of The Holy Bible -
James, Chapter 2, Verses 14 to 28.
SELECT BIBLIOGRAPHY:
|
Eyre-Todd,
George
The Highland Clans of Scotland |
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