Heraldry of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie

Medieval monk decorating illuminated manuscript with ornamental letters and heraldic motif.

A medieval monk at work, painting elaborate heraldic motifs in an illuminated manuscript—a fitting homage to the art and tradition of heraldry.

Introduction

The heraldry associated with the Barony and Lordship of Leslie reflects both historical reverence and legal recognition under Scottish heraldic law. The armorial bearings were granted by the Court of the Lord Lyon, the supreme heraldic authority in Scotland, by Warrant dated 30 April 2025 in favour of Giacomo Merello, Baron of Leslie, and his descendants.

The Blazon (Arms) Blazon

Heraldic shield of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie, featuring a gold chief with scales and a blue field with crossed olive and oak branches

The shield of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie: a gold chief bearing scales of justice above a blue field with crossed olive and oak branches, symbolising peace, strength and the baron's Italian roots.

Azure, an olive branch and oak branch in saltire fructed and leaved Proper throughout, on a chief Or the scales of justice Azure between two maunches Sable.
This composition symbolises a harmony of peace and strength, and a celebration of the baron's legacy and life. The olive and oak branches, on the bottom, are traditionally associated with Italy, where the baron was originally born; yet, they are presented "fructed" or "bearing fruit", symbolising the recognition and success achieved abroad. On the upper side, at the center the scales of justice, a nod to the baron’s career as a lawyer. Next to it, two "maunches"; The maunch is a heraldic charge that originated in medieval England and became popular in the 12th and 13th centuries. It represents a stylized lady’s sleeve, specifically the detachable sleeve of a woman's gown worn during the Norman and early Plantagenet periods. A lady would at the time detach the sleeve and bind it to the upper arm of a knight or favorite man-at-arms before a duel or a battle, as a symbol of affection and wish of a safe return. It can be interpreted as an expression of the armiger's love for his wife, or, in general, being popular with ladies.

Crest and Motto

Crest of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie featuring a blue sea-lion and the motto ‘In Fortitudo Fido’ on a gold scroll.

The crest of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie, displaying the blue sea-lion and the motto ‘In Fortitudo Fido’ (‘In Strength I Trust’)

Crest:
On a wreath of the liveries is set for Crest a heraldic sea-lion erect Azure.
The sea-lion, a rare heraldic beast combining the power of the lion with the agility of the sea, reflects strength, courage, and maritime sovereignty—appropriate to the bearer’s diplomatic and international engagements. It is also a nod to the baron's long-term residence, the Republic of Singapore, which often uses a "merlion" as an unofficial symbol, where he found recognition and success.
Motto: IN FORTITUDO FIDO ("In Fortitude I Trust"). This motto speaks to steadfastness in principle and constancy of purpose, aligning with both personal values and the noble traditions of the barony.

Helm, Mantling and Achievement

Helmet with blue and gold mantling from the heraldic achievement of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie

The helmet and blue-gold mantling from the arms of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie, symbolising nobility rank and heritage

Above the shield is set a helm befitting the rank of a Scottish feudal baron (typically of steel with one or three grilles decorated in gold), facing dexter and adorned with a mantling Azure doubled Or, the principal tinctures of the arms, which are connected to the original Clan Leslie tinctures. The complete armorial achievement includes helm, mantling, wreath, crest, and motto, consistent with the dignity of a Scottish barony.

Official Recognition

The arms are officially granted and matriculated in the Public Register of All Arms and Bearings in Scotland, pursuant to a Warrant issued by the Lord Lyon King of Arms on 30 April 2025. These arms are protected under Scottish law and may only be borne by Dr Giacomo Merello, the Baron of Leslie and his lawful descendants.

Visual representation of the full achievement

Full heraldic achievement of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie, featuring crest, helmet, mantling, motto, and shield.

The full heraldic achievement of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie, displaying the crest with the blue sea-lion, helmet with blue and gold mantling, the motto ‘In Fortitudo Fido,’ and the shield representing justice, peace, and strength.