The Riddell Collection of Wax Seals:
Seal Life Stories: the remarkable careers of 23 individuals from the Riddell Collection of Wax Seals
7: St Mungo’s city - the city of glasgow
The city crest of Glasgow
Arms of Glasgow ‘Let Glasgow Flourish’
This is the official seal of Glasgow, used on all Council documents by the Town Clerks. The image is that of the Arms of Glasgow which feature symbols relating to the life of St Mungo, patron saint of Glasgow. The tree, bird, fish and bell first appeared together on the official coat of arms in 1488 and the design of this seal most likely dates from 1789 when a new engraving was made, the old version was deemed ‘very imperfectly cut’. The motto ‘Let Glasgow Flourish’ is a shortening of St Mungo’s prayer - ‘Lord let Glasgow flourish through the preaching of thy word and praising thy name’.