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Family coats of arms, noble coats of arms and alliance coats of arms – personally carved and colour-painted
by master woodcarver Manfred Gerlach, and on request finished with 23 carat gold leaf.
The carving of coats of arms is pure handcraft – from the first working sketch to the finished coat of arms,
painted in the correct heraldic colours. Every coat of arms is a unique piece.
Family coats of arms carved in wood – a sign of origin, created to last for generations
A family coat of arms is more than just a beautiful motif – it is a symbol of identity, origin and family cohesion across generations.
In finely carved form it becomes a visible expression of your own history. Personal family coats of arms, hand-carved and colour-painted,
combine tradition with lasting appreciation – a one-of-a-kind piece made to endure.
The history of family coats of arms – from knights to genealogy
Family coats of arms have their origins in the European Middle Ages. Initially, coats of arms on shields and armour served to identify
knights on the battlefield. Soon noble families began to use their arms as a visible sign of rank, property and power. Over the centuries
coats of arms also became accessible to commoners – first to wealthy master craftsmen, guilds and merchants, and later to entire families
who preserved their legacy in a coat of arms.
Today, family coats of arms are enjoying a renaissance – not only in genealogy, but also as emotional heirlooms, wedding gifts or visible
signs of family roots. Having a family coat of arms carved today means continuing a centuries-old tradition.
From design to family tradition in wood – how a family coat of arms is created
The design of a family coat of arms often begins with an idea, a sketch or a reference from an armorial. It is important to follow the
rules of heraldry: colours, symbols and the division of the shield follow a traditional system that makes every coat of arms unmistakable.
After the drawing is finished, the coat of arms is transferred onto high-quality linden or oak wood. Here the real handwork begins:
with great sensitivity and many years of experience, the motif is carved into the wood using traditional gouges. Every family coat of arms
is carved by hand – with depth, precision and soul. Every piece is unique.
In the next step the coat of arms is colour-painted, that is, painted in the correct heraldic colours. Particularly noble are family
coats of arms that are refined with gold leaf or silver leaf – a highlight often chosen for family tree arms, wedding coats of arms or
anniversary gifts. A protective varnish preserves the artwork for decades.
How much does it cost to have a family coat of arms carved?
The question “What does a family coat of arms cost?” cannot be answered in one sentence. The price depends on size, complexity of the
motif, colour wishes and any gold-leaf decoration. A simple hand-carved family coat of arms begins in the lower three-digit range.
Elaborate pieces with many details, colour and gold leaf can cost several hundred euros. What always remains true: every family coat of arms
is a one-of-a-kind piece – made with handcraft and heart.
Personal family coats of arms – visible history in wood
Whether for a birth, a wedding, an anniversary or as a gift for the next generation: a personal family coat of arms, carved and painted,
is more than decoration – it is a lasting expression of family values and origin. Used as part of a family tree or in combination with
a book of ancestors, the carved family coat of arms becomes a true heirloom.
Who creates my family coat of arms?
In the Bildhauerei Gerlach workshop, family coats of arms are created in pure hand-carving. Master woodcarver Manfred Gerlach is
specialised in the design and production of heraldic coats of arms. With experience, passion and precise craftsmanship he creates
family coats of arms based on old models or modern designs – traditional, individual and full of detail.
Whether you would like to reinterpret an existing family coat of arms or have a completely new one designed – here you can have your
family coat of arms carved by a master craftsman, from the best wood and with great attention to detail. A carved family coat of arms
is a symbol of origin, history, cohesion and the future.
Carved City Coats of Arms – Identity Engraved in Wood
Since the Middle Ages, cities have expressed their pride, identity and autonomy through a symbol: the city coat of arms.
These heraldic emblems represent tradition, history and community. Carving a city crest means translating cultural heritage into wood –
with artistic precision and deep craftsmanship.
The Origin of City Coats of Arms
City coats of arms emerged during the High Middle Ages, when towns gained independence through market rights or municipal charters.
To underline their new status, many cities created their own coats of arms, often inspired by local lords, patrons or historical features.
Soon these arms appeared on seals, towers, flags, documents and buildings.
Even today, the coat of arms is the official emblem of the municipality and part of its legal identity. It represents origin, uniqueness,
and local pride. City heraldry remains an essential part of communal identity, seen on welcome signs, plaques, and official materials.
Designed by Heraldic Rules
City coats of arms follow the strict rules of heraldry. The shield shape may vary by region (e.g., French pointed shield).
Colours (tinctures) like red, blue, black, silver and gold must follow certain contrast rules. Symbols such as lions, towers, crosses,
wheels or waves reflect historical or geographical relevance.
Having a city crest carved in wood requires precision and fidelity to the original heraldic design. A carved city coat of arms is both
a respectful symbol and a prestigious artwork.
How a City Coat of Arms Is Made
The process starts with an official design or historic reference. A scaled drawing is created and transferred to carefully selected
wood – typically linden or oak.
Using traditional carving tools, the city crest is sculpted in full detail by hand. Every shape, depth and contour is crafted with care.
It is then colourised according to heraldic rules. Upon request, areas may be adorned with gold or silver leaf for extra distinction.
Modern Use and Significance
Carved city coats of arms are used in town halls, schools, bridges, monuments or as ceremonial gifts to citizens, twin towns or
partner institutions. Many municipalities commission wooden crests to highlight local heritage and unity. Fire departments,
associations and mayors also appreciate them as lasting symbols of civic pride.
How Much Does a City Coat of Arms Cost?
Prices vary depending on size, level of detail and finish. Simpler versions start in the low hundreds. Detailed reliefs with gold or
silver leaf and full painting require a higher investment.
Who Creates My City Crest?
Master sculptor Manfred Gerlach carves every city coat of arms by hand – faithful to heraldic tradition, artistically crafted,
and individually painted. Each piece is a handcrafted original, made for cities, associations or communities that value identity
through artistry.
