DISCLAIMER: THE SYMBOLS IN THIS SET ARE FROM THE HBO TV SERIES, NOT THE ORIGINAL NOVELS.

Based on George R.R. Martin’s famous series of novels (collectively known as “A Song of Ice and Fire”), the television series “Game of Thrones” first premiered in 2011 on the channel HBO. It is set in a fantasy world heavily based on the society and culture of the European Middle Ages. Two primary continents, known as Westeros and Essos, make up the bulk of the visible landmass in this world, with the former being featured in storylines much more frequently. While typical elements from fantasy stories, such as dragons and various forms of magic, are seen throughout the series, in the long run these generally take a backseat to the military conflicts, political machinations and family dynamics that are the principle focus of the story.

The continent of Westeros is made up of many different regions, each of which has its own culture and history. Most of these regions form constituent parts of a single political realm, which is presided over by a ruling monarch. While the monarch holds ultimate power over the realm, local governance of each region is handled by a “Great House”, a noble family whose members answer directly to the sovereign. Each region also possesses any number of “Vassal Houses” who owe their loyalty to the governing Great House in one capacity or another. House Redwyne is one of the Vassal Houses in The Reach. Their ancestral home is known as the Arbor, a large island off the southwestern coast famous for its warm climate. The sigil of House Redwyne is a burgundy grape cluster on a field of white. Their motto, if they have one, has thus far not been revealed.

The symbolic meaning behind House Redwyne’s sigil is explained in the history that George R.R. Martin developed for his world. The Arbor is the largest wine producer in Westeros, and its high-quality vintages are famous throughout the Seven Kingdoms and beyond. As a major player in the wine trade, the Redwynes command one of the largest mercantile fleets on the continent. Additionally, the greater part of The Reach’s navy is based on the Arbor, giving the island immense commercial and strategic value.