heraldic art

Original heraldic artwork, each piece is drawn and painted by hand.

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Andrew Jamieson has worked as a professional heraldic artist since 1983, following three years of formal specialist training in heraldic painting, calligraphy and manuscript illumination.

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His work belongs to the living tradition of heraldic art: founded upon historical knowledge, disciplined draughtsmanship and craftsmanship, but expressed in an individual and original way.

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A living tradition

A coat of arms is defined by its blazon — the formal heraldic description of what the arms must contain. How those elements are drawn and composed is the work of the heraldic artist.

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A lion, eagle, helm, crest or piece of mantling can be interpreted in many ways while remaining heraldically correct. Andrew approaches each commission as a complete composition, balancing line, movement, colour and form to create work with character and individuality.

Every composition is drawn specifically for the commission. It is not assembled from digital, stock or ready-made heraldic elements.

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drawn & painted by hand

Drawing lies at the foundation of Andrew's work. Preliminary studies establish the character, movement and balance of the composition before the finished painting begins.

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Depending upon the commission, traditional materials may include calfskin vellum, watercolour and gouache, shell gold and genuine gold leaf, including raised and burnished gilding.

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These materials are used not simply because they are traditional, but for the qualities they give to the finished work: the luminosity of vellum, the brilliance of gold and the unmistakable presence of an object made by hand.

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Tradition is a foundation, not an exercise in imitation.

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Andrew's purpose is not to reproduce the past, but to create original work within a tradition that has evolved over many centuries.

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Professional Practice Since 1983

Andrew undertakes heraldic commissions for private individuals, families and institutions in Britain and internationally.

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His work has encompassed private, institutional, Royal and State commissions. In 2023 he was chosen to design the invitation for the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla.

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Existing coats of arms can be given a new artistic interpretation, while Andrew can also advise upon newly granted or the design assumed arms where appropriate.

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The heraldry remains correct. The interpretation belongs to the artist.

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