Where do I start?

[AJH - Holmes and Gordon]

I was chatting to a friend about family history when I noticed this coat of arms on the wall (attached). He has never thought anything of it other than it makes a nice piece on the wall. He said his mother told him it was a family heirloom and it was passed down generations, however he's not convinced and thinks she likely picked it up at a boot sale or such like.

I was really curious and with my interest in family history, I said I would look into it for him. However, I now realise I haven't a clue where to start, so I was wondering what you think? Is there a surname associated with it? How would I check if it is an old piece or a fairly new imitation? There are no markings I could see and he says there is no text or markings on the rear.

TIA

Andrew

[Kiltpin]

It is Spanish - the arms of Castille and Leon. I would guess that it was a souvenir bought on holiday.

You can see the full coat of arms of Spain here - https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Escudo_de_Espa%C3%B1a_(mazonado).svg 

Note the top 2 quarters. 

Regards 

Chas

[Mart 'n' Al]

It is an example of punning arms, where the devices on the shield give some indication of the family names.

It is quite unusual in that the lions are facing in opposite directions.

Martin

[KGarrad]

It is an example of punning arms, where the devices on the shield give some indication of the family names.

It is quite unusual in that the lions are facing in opposite directions.

Martin

Quite right, Martin.
In heraldic terms, the arms are canting arms - means they are a pun on the name

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Canting_arms

[AJH - Holmes and Gordon]

Thanks for that everyone