Thecoat of arms of Belfast was officially granted on 30 June 1890,[1] although it has been used since the 17th century, making its first appearance on aseal adopted in 1640.[2]
The arms depict a sailing ship beneath apile or triangle ofvair. The ship reflects the city's maritime history, while the vair comes from the arms ofSir Arthur Chichester, the founder of modern Belfast. There is also acanton emblazoned with a bell, representing the first syllable of the name (an example of "canting" or punning heraldry).[2]
The symbolism of the shield is carried over into thesupporters, a wolf and aseahorse. The wolf is a further reference to the Chichester family, whose arms were supported by two wolves, while the seahorse (which is repeated in thecrest) is another maritime symbol, representing the steed on whichNeptune was said to ride.[2] Themural crowns were added after Belfast became a city in 1888.[3]
The Latin motto,Pro tanto quid retribuamus, means "What return shall we make for so much?"[3] or "In return for so much, what shall we give back?"[4] This is a paraphrased version of Psalm 116:12, given in theVulgate asQuid retribuam Domino pro omnibus quae retribuit mihi? ("What shall I render unto the Lord for all his benefits toward me?").[3]
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