Armorial shield - The University Oxford

Armorial shield - The University Oxford. Painted tole shield the arms mounted on an oak shield. English, circa 1900

Azure, upon a book open proper leathered gules garnished or having on the dexter side seven seals of the last the words DOMINVS ILLVMINATIO MEA all between three open crowns two and one or.

The arms have been in existence since 1400, but have varied in appearance over the centuries. The Book itself are taken to be the seven Liberal Sciences, and the Crowns  to be the reward and honour of Learning and Wisdom; and the triplicity of the Crowns are taken to represent the three Cardinal Professions or Faculties before specified (Theology, Physics and Law). Then Inscription can vary but this ancient  one, Deus illuminatio mea, The Lord is my light.