The University Arms
Although the University has a new logo, the Arms are an important part of the University's heritage and are present in the fabric of many University buildings. There will be certain instances where the University Arms should take precedence over the logo, ie when there is a specific historical or ceremonial requirement (eg, on degree certificates).
The University Arms and the logo should not appear together.
None of the images on this page are suitable for downloading; if you require a copy of the arms image, please contact the Public Relations Office, public-relations@bristol.ac.uk, tel 0117 928 8895.
Description
The University Arms were granted on 4 December 1909, and comprise:
'argent on a cross quadrate gules the arms of the City of Bristol between in pale and a sun in splendour (for Wills) and an open book proper, leaved and clasped or, and inscribed with the words Nisi quia Dominus, and in fesse to the dexter a dolphin embowed (for Colston), and to the sinister a horse courant (for Fry), both of the third.'
The inscription on the book is the Latin opening of the 124th Psalm, 'If the lord himself had not (been on our side....)', and the motto granted with the Arms is Vim promovet insitam, from the fourth Ode of Horace's fourth book meaning '[Learning] promotes one's innate power'.
The arms of the City of Bristol appear in the centre of the University Arms. They date from 1569 and show a golden ship sailing from a silver castle - symbolic of Bristol's reputation as a great seafaring port and major trading centre.
Full colour
Wherever practicable, the full-colour Arms should be used.
Line versions
The mono line version of the Arms should be used when it is not possible to use the full-colour version. The principal colour should be University Red, although the Arms may appear in any single colour.
When using the University Arms against a dark background, the Arms should appear white out (reversed out).
