Coat of arms of the Van de Graaf family
Coat of arms of the Van de Graaf family
The family crest consists of a shield, with coverings around the shield called heraldies. The helmet is placed above the shield with the twist again above it. The helmet mark is above the twist again.
The following components have been added (from top to bottom):
(1) Helmet mark
(2) Wrong; The wrong is placed on top of the helmet.
(3) Covers; These are the decorations next to helmet and shield.
(4) Helmet; The helmet rests on the shield.
(5) (Weapon) shield; This is the most important part of the coat of arms.
The coat of arms features a tree (oak) and a bird (pigeon).
“When the back is as straight and sturdy as a tree and our roots reach deep into the earth, then we will get to know our strength and be really nourished”.
The oak: Its symbolic value: strength, vitality, balance, stability, protection, durability and invincibility and the king of the trees. It is the ruler of the forest.
In ancient Greece, the tree symbolized the connection of the Gods with the people. In Celtic culture, the oak provided protection and hospitality to people who were honest and courageous. That was also one of the reasons why doors were made of oak.
Above the oak is a bird, a dove.
The dove is associated with peace, with life spirit, the breath and the soul. She is associated with femininity, goddesses, mothers and queens.
The dove brings peace and love, is understanding and gentle, is seen as a spiritual messenger and represents the communication between the two worlds.