Coat of Arms
At its core, heraldry started as a means of identification, evolving over centuries from simple insignias to the complex art of designing, displaying, and studying coats of arms. As we recognize it, the tradition of heraldry emerged in the early 12th century, primarily serving the practical purpose of distinguishing combatants who were otherwise anonymized by their armor on the battlefield. This necessity gave rise to the role of the herald, individuals who, clad in a distinctive tabard, were tasked with conveying messages and issuing challenges for their sovereigns or lords. They were shielded from harm and armed with extensive knowledge of the armorial symbols within their jurisdiction and beyond.
Over time, heralds gained the sovereign-backed authority to grant coats of arms officially. Although the decline of armor in warfare diminished heraldry’s original functional role, it had already cemented its place within the societal fabric, symbolizing status and identity far beyond the battlefield. Coats of arms expanded in scope and were awarded to the aristocracy and notable figures in society seeking a distinctive form of identification amid widespread illiteracy.
In the modern era, heraldry has transcended its practical origins to become predominantly a symbol of prestige and heritage. While some may attempt to adopt self-styled arms, proper legal recognition of a coat of arms requires sanctioning by an authoritative body acting under a mandate from the state. This ensures that heraldry remains a respected tradition grounded in legitimacy and historical continuity.
The Republic of Malta boasts a rich tapestry of European heraldic tradition, adorned with coats of arms that narrate the island’s history through its noble families, the esteemed Order of St. John, and the ecclesiastical heritage. This heraldic legacy extends to various institutions, including companies, schools, and corporations, each bearing unique armorial symbols that contribute to the cultural mosaic of the Maltese Islands.
For a long time, the vibrant array of heraldic emblems across Malta evolved without the oversight of a central regulatory body. This changed with the recent establishment of the Office of the Chief Herald of Arms of Malta, located within the historic confines of Fort St Elmo in Valletta. Count Charles Gauci’s appointment as the inaugural Chief Herald of Arms in 2019 marked the beginning of a new era in Maltese heraldry.
Under the auspices of the Chief Herald of Arms, all newly granted or registered coats of arms receive official recognition by the State, ensuring their protection from unauthorized replication. The Chief Herald’s office regulates personal and corporate heraldic symbols throughout Malta. This includes the creation and grant of new arms, the registration of long-standing local arms, and the acknowledgment of arms granted by recognized foreign authorities.
I received a grant of arms from the Office of the Chief Herald of Arms of Malta, formalized through Letters Patent numbered G0102, issued on May 1, 2024. The formal notice of this grant was published in the Gazzetta tal-Gvern ta’ Malta, the official gazette of the Government of Malta, in issue number 21,194, on Feburary 16, 2024. This publication serves as the official record, ensuring transparency and public acknowledgment of the newly granted arms.
This coat of arms, now officially recorded and recognized, joins a storied collection of heraldic emblems that reflect the diverse heritage and dynamic future of Malta. It stands as a symbol of honor and distinction, offering a lasting legacy that will be cherished by generations to come.
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A blazon is the formal language of heraldry, an intricate system of symbols and descriptions used for centuries to convey the composition of coats of arms. It is a precise and codified language that allows heralds and enthusiasts alike to recreate the visual splendor of a heraldic shield from textual descriptions alone. Each term in a blazon specifies colors, patterns, symbols, and placement, ensuring that the coat of arms can be accurately interpreted and replicated anywhere in the world.
Argent in pale a tetrahedron Azure pierced in bend by a sword Or with pommel and cross piece of the Second. Upon a helm befitting his degree with mantling Azure and doubled Or is set for crest, upon a wreath of the liveries a martlet Sable.
Lewn il-Fidda in Pale tetrahedron lewn Ikħal minfud b'sejf In Bend lewn id-Deheb u bil-maqbad u s-salib tiegħu ta' lewn Ikħal.Fuq elmu li jixraq il-grad tiegħu bid-drappeġġ Ikħal u lewn id-Deheb hemm bħala Kresta fuq girlanda tal-istess ilwien ħuttafa ta' lewn Iswed.
The blazon presented encapsulates a deeply personal and symbolic heraldic identity, reflective of both heritage and individual achievement. At its heart, the argent field sets a stage of purity and sincerity, upon which a tetrahedron azure is prominently featured. This geometric figure is not chosen randomly; it is a deliberate nod to the world of mathematics, representing the bearer’s role within this discipline. The tetrahedron, a solid figure with four triangular faces, is foundational in geometric studies and serves as a metaphor for stability and intellectual building blocks, mirroring the bearer’s contributions to and foundations in mathematics.
Piercing the tetrahedron in bend is a sword, or; the seal of Cincinnati, Ohio, directly inspires its design. This choice links the bearer’s heraldic identity to a significant locale. The imagery of the sword also evokes the legendary tale of King Arthur’s Excalibur, suggesting themes of nobility, valor, and the destined right to leadership. The “sword-in-the-stone” allusion enriches the emblem with a narrative of overcoming challenges to achieve one’s rightful place, much like the mythical king.
The crest features a martlet sable, a heraldic charge that holds rich symbolism within the realm of heraldry. Suggested by Count Gauci, the martlet’s inclusion hints at a lineage likely connecting me to Thomas Arundell, whose arms bore six martlets. While the descent remains unproven, the martlet is a significant symbol in heraldry, often representing continuous quest and ambition. Traditionally depicted without feet, the martlet is said to be in perpetual flight, emblematic of constant endeavor and the pursuit of higher aspirations. This imagery aligns with the bearer’s journey of discovery and excellence in their field. Therefore, the use of the martlet is not only a potential nod to ancestral ties but also a testament to the bearer’s tireless dedication and pursuit of knowledge, embodying the spirit of ambition and the relentless pursuit of achievement.
In addition to incorporating the martlet into the crest of the coat of arms, I’ve embraced a unique cross-cultural heraldic approach by creating an image of the martlet styled as a Japanese kamon. A kamon is a form of Japanese heraldry, symbolizing family crests or emblems that date back to the Heian period (794-1185). Traditionally used to identify family lineage, kamon designs are elegantly simplistic and highly stylized, often representing animals, plants, or abstract symbols. This integration of a kamon into the heraldic design not only highlights a blend of Eastern and Western heraldic traditions but also reflects a personal connection to the aesthetic and cultural significance of Japanese symbolism.
For a motto, I chose “Ir-rieda biss tmexxi l-qalb”, which is Maltese for “Only the will leads the heart.” This motto underscores the importance of determination and willpower in guiding one’s passions and decisions, suggesting that true leadership and direction in life come from inner strength and resolve.
As an aside, Count Gauci suggested this was the first Maltese motto he had seen in his term of office!
An emblazonment in heraldry refers to the artistic representation of a coat of arms, bringing to life the abstract descriptions of a blazon through vivid imagery and design. This process transforms the precise and formulaic language of heraldry into a visual symbol unique to the bearer, encapsulating their heritage, achievements, and values. While there may be multiple emblazonments of the same coat of arms, each with its own stylistic nuances and artistic interpretations, they are all considered equivalent as long as they accurately adhere to the details specified in the original blazon. This principle allows for a rich diversity of heraldic art, where the essence of the coat of arms remains consistent across different renditions, showcasing the universal language of heraldry that transcends individual variations in artistic expression.
I have developed two versions of my coat of arms, utilizing digital techniques to craft the heraldic elements. Displayed side by side, the version on the left adheres to the traditional English style, while the one on the right follows the medieval convention. I have used the medieval style in most cases due to its more compact and streamlined design, which offers greater versatility for various applications.
In this section, we showcase various artistic interpretations of my coat of arms, highlighting the diversity and creativity within heraldic art. Each emblazonment, while adhering to the same blazon, brings a unique style and perspective, reflecting the individual artistry of the creators. These variations enrich the visual representation of the arms, demonstrating how heraldry can be both a precise science and a vibrant art form. By exploring different emblazonments, we can appreciate the multifaceted nature of heraldic design and its capacity to convey identity and heritage through various artistic lenses.
Together, the crest, badge, and livery flag form a complete set of external insignia associated with my armorial bearings. Each serves a distinct purpose within the broader heraldic tradition: the crest, placed atop the helm, completes the full achievement; the badge, rendered in the Scottish strap-and-buckle form, marks personal identity and armigerous status; and the flag, a vertical tricolor of gold, blue, and white, displays the livery colors in a form suited for public and ceremonial use. Though governed by differing conventions–Scottish, English, Maltese, and beyond–these elements share a unifying function: to express, in various media and degrees of formality, the continuity and presence of heraldic identity.
The heraldic banner is a square flag displaying the shield alone, rendered at full size and in proper proportions. Unlike a standard, which includes multiple armorial components and a tapering shape, the banner reproduces only the escutcheon. This makes it the most literal and direct translation of the arms into flag form, following longstanding heraldic convention. The banner is typically used in static and ceremonial settings, such as processions, investitures, academic convocations, or indoor displays, where the design can be seen clearly and appreciated up close.
The blazon of the banner is:
A banner of the Arms.
This format omits helm, crest, mantling, and motto, in keeping with the convention that banners reflect only the contents of the shield. By excluding all external additaments, the banner places visual and symbolic emphasis on the core of the armorial identity. In my case, this includes the mathematical symbol of the tetrahedron and the golden sword inspired by the civic seal of Cincinnati, elements that signify structure, intellect, and heritage.
The banner’s square proportions (1:1) also distinguish it from other heraldic flags, such as standards or guidons. It is not meant to be flown from a pole in the open air, but rather presented in still environments, hung vertically from a balcony, mounted on a wall, or carried in procession. This controlled setting allows for a more intimate viewing of the arms and supports their use as a formal emblem of identity.
The English heraldic badge I have adopted features two distinct designs, each reflecting different aspects of my armigerous status and personal values. The primary badge incorporates the martlet from my crest, depicted in front of the sword from my coat of arms, which is arranged vertically. This design choice adds a layer of complexity and meaning, combining two significant elements from my coat of arms into a single, cohesive emblem. The badge is designed to be recognizable and straightforward, making it suitable for various applications such as seals, stationery, and personal regalia.
The English heraldic badge I use combines the principal charges of my coat of arms into a unified emblem suitable for display in less formal contexts. The badge consists of a vertically oriented sword, point downward, with the martlet from my crest set in front. This pairing integrates the symbolism of steadfastness and inquiry, bringing together the two central motifs of my heraldic identity.
The blazon is:
A sword point downwards Or, hilt and crossguard Azure, overall a martlet Sable.
This badge was not part of the original grant of arms issued by the Chief Herald of Arms of Malta, but was adopted subsequently in accordance with heraldic custom. It remains faithful to the elements of the granted arms and reflects a legitimate extension of their use in badge form. In English heraldry, badges have long served as personal devices—distinct from arms or crest—used for identification on clothing, possessions, and in architectural ornament.
The Scottish crest badge, traditionally worn as a cap badge, incorporates elements from my personal crest within a strap and buckle design, an emblematic format that communicates loyalty and fidelity. This design is not merely decorative; it is steeped in the legal and symbolic framework of Scottish heraldry. In its classic form, the strap-and-buckle encircles the crest of a clan chief and bears the chief’s motto, signifying allegiance from the wearer to that chief. In more recent times, armigers, those granted arms in their own right, have adapted this form to display their own crests, thereby signifying personal armigerous status and independent heraldic authority.
The origins of the crest badge lie in the clan system of the Scottish Highlands, where the chief’s crest and motto functioned as visual shorthand for the collective identity of the clan. Members of the clan, though not necessarily armigers themselves, would wear the chief’s crest within a belt and buckle to declare their loyalty. This practice was codified by the Court of the Lord Lyon, Scotland’s heraldic authority, which regulates not only the grant and use of arms but also their display. It is thus not only a cultural tradition, but a practice grounded in heraldic law. For armigers, the adaptation of the badge to include their own crest represents a proud assertion of personal identity within the broader heraldic community.
The central element of my own Scottish crest badge is the martlet, depicted without feet, which traditionally symbolizes ceaseless effort and the pursuit of higher goals. The martlet’s perpetual motion, never able to land, embodies the idea of continual striving, a reflection of personal ambition and moral resilience. Encircling the martlet is a belt bearing the motto “Ir-rieda biss tmexxi l-qalb,” which in Maltese means “The will must guide the heart.” This phrase, personal in origin and meaning, pairs naturally with the image of the martlet, both emphasizing inward resolve and the search for ethical direction.
My badge also includes a feather, a distinctive mark in Scottish heraldry that denotes the bearer as an armiger. This usage has evolved from the tradition by which clan members without arms might wear a single feather behind their badge when attending in support of their chief. An armiger, however, may bear a single feather in their badge design to signify independent armigerous status, visually setting them apart from clansmen who are not entitled to arms. In this context, the feather functions as both a heraldic and social indicator, affirming that the wearer has been formally recognized by the Lord Lyon as bearing arms in their own right.
The belt and buckle motif is not arbitrary. Its circular form denotes unity and continuity, while the buckle represents security, steadfastness, and the binding nature of oaths. When this design is worn around the crest of another, such as a clan chief, it marks deference and fealty. When worn with one’s own crest, it marks a complete and lawful identity within the heraldic tradition. The shape and symbolism thus reinforce the meaning of the badge: a unity of personal arms with traditional loyalty, enclosed and secured by the emblems of honor.
In my own badge, the strap-and-buckle format not only frames the martlet, feather, and motto, it draws them together into a unified visual language. The result is an emblem that expresses individual aspiration, the legal dignity of armigerous rank, and an inherited fidelity to the ideals of Scottish heraldic tradition. It is, in that sense, both a personal and cultural declaration, one that honors the past even as it presses forward, like the martlet, into the future.
A heraldic standard is a long, tapering flag that serves as a personal or familial ensign, especially appropriate for armigers with crests and badges. Unlike a banner, which displays the arms alone, a standard integrates multiple heraldic elements into a cohesive and ceremonial whole. Its primary purpose is to signal identity in a public or military setting, not just through arms, but through livery colors, motto, and emblematic devices. Historically, standards were used in procession, in battle, and at tournaments, where they marked allegiance, presence, and prestige.
My own standard follows this tradition. The hoist bears the arms of Maryland, that is, the quartered arms of the Calvert and Crossland families, emblematic of the Barons Baltimore and the colonial proprietorship from which Maryland takes its name. This placement, known as the hoist of allegiance, declares personal loyalty to a geographic or feudal authority, rather than to a royal house. In the context of a standard, it traditionally signified the liege lord or political body to which the armiger owed allegiance. In my case, it honors both historical continuity and my family’s deep Maryland roots.
The full blazon of the standard is as follows:
A standard, the hoist bearing the arms of Maryland; the fly per fess Argent, charged with the Crest between two representations of the Badge, all separated by two bends Azure inscribed with the Motto in letters Argent.
The fly of the standard is designed to bring together the principal components of my armorial bearings in a dynamic and legible form suited to cloth. The Crest, set prominently between two versions of the personal Badge, anchors the visual composition. The bends inscribed with the Motto (Ir-rieda biss tmexxi l-qalb) provide both literal and symbolic connection between these elements. The overall design reflects a deliberate balance between personal identity and public allegiance, offering a visual statement that is both traditional and uniquely mine.
Although not included in the original grant of arms issued by the Chief Herald of Arms of Malta, this standard was developed and adopted subsequently in accordanc e with established heraldic practice. It remains consistent with the armorial bearings granted under Maltese authority and serves as a lawful and appropriate extension of their use in flag form.
Integrating elements from different heraldic traditions can create a meaningful and distinctive personal emblem. In developing my coat of arms, I incorporated the concept of Japanese heraldry, known as kamon, into my own design. The result is a creative fusion that bridges my personal heritage with a centuries-old tradition from Japan.
Kamon emerged in Japan during the Heian period (794-1185) and historically served as familial emblems, helping identify lineage and affiliation. Typically, these designs exhibit elegant simplicity, emphasizing clean lines and stylized forms. Common motifs include animals, plants, and geometric patterns, rendered with refined minimalism.
By applying this aesthetic approach to my own heraldic tradition, I chose the image of the martlet, significant to my family’s symbolism, and transformed it through the lens of Japanese design principles. The result is an emblem that not only respects the history of both heraldic cultures but also resonates on a deeply personal level. The simplicity and symbolism of the kamon complement the traditional complexity often found in Western heraldry, creating a visual representation that reflects both cultural depth and personal heritage.
This fusion highlights the universal appeal and adaptability of heraldic traditions, demonstrating how personal identity and history can be elegantly expressed through thoughtful design.
The flag of my liveries is composed of three vertical stripes of equal width, arranged from hoist to fly in the order gold, blue, and white. This tricolor format offers a clean, modern articulation of the livery colors drawn from my armorial bearings. It is not a banner of arms and does not replicate any heraldic charges; rather, it serves as a livery flag, a visual marker of affiliation, presence, and identity.
Unlike traditional banners of arms, which transcribe the shield directly into flag form, the livery flag is more flexible in use. It may be flown in both formal and informal contexts, serving as a field sign, household standard, or traveling emblem. Its purpose is to convey recognition, not blazon: a coherent expression of the armiger’s established colors, suitable for display where the full achievement might be impractical or excessive.
The vertical arrangement offers a balanced and dignified aesthetic, consistent with both heraldic and vexillological principles. Though the colors themselves do not carry specific symbolic meaning apart from their use in the arms, their combination is distinctive and immediately recognizable. When rendered in cloth or drawn in miniature, the gold–blue–white tricolor serves as a quiet but unmistakable extension of heraldic presence.
In this way, the flag complements the crest, badge, and full achievement: not by repeating their form, but by reinforcing their identity through color and proportion. It is a modern continuation of livery tradition, designed for clarity, defined by lineage, and carried forward with fidelity.
Complementing the coat of arms, I have adopted a distinctive heraldic cockade, a traditional decorative rosette historically used to symbolize allegiance, affiliation, or identity. Often worn on hats or uniforms, cockades have a rich tradition in heraldry and carry symbolic significance.
My personal heraldic cockade consists of three concentric circles in white, blue, and gold, arranged from the outside to the center. These colors mirror those prominently featured in my coat of arms. Together, the cockade and coat of arms visually reinforce my personal and heraldic identity, bridging symbolism from both tradition and personal heritage.
Together, the harmonious arrangement of these colors reinforces a balanced blend of heritage, individual values, and an appreciation of intercultural connections. By incorporating this cockade alongside my coat of arms, I emphasize not only my personal identity but also the timeless unity of meaningful symbolism across diverse cultures.
In addition to the arms granted to me by the Chief Herald of Arms of Malta, I have registered a personal tartan with the Scottish Register of Tartans. Entitled the James Howard & Family (Personal) tartan, it was officially entered into the Register on 27 May 2025 under registration number 14,834.
The thread count is:
DB/36 DY4 Y8 DY4 DB36 B28 LB20 W/8
This tartan draws its palette directly from the heraldic colors of my coat of arms. While the colors do not carry individual symbolic meaning, they collectively serve to reinforce the visual identity already established in armorial form. Rendered in deep blues, golds, and white, the design expresses continuity between textile and shield — a wearable complement to the armorial tradition.
The aesthetic of the tartan is best described as modern ceremonial: it shares affinities with regimental and academic tartans, but is grounded in personal heraldry rather than institutional use. Though formally contemporary, its composition evokes the balance and dignity of historical patterns. The staff at the Register were both courteous and efficient, making the registration process an absolute pleasure.
This tartan is reserved for personal and family use. Friends and extended kin are welcome to wear it respectfully, particularly in heraldic or ceremonial contexts.
