Epigram About the Mark of Distinction of the Old Noble Kress Family and Their Virtues

The Kress Coat-of-Arms portrays a bright tale

In allegory's lore - withdraw the veil:

It paints with glory (whoever it reads)

Their illustr'ous virtues, their forefather's deeds.

Great feats of heroism, tilts the sword,

Their helmets crowned by grace of the Lord.

Look! The blade they wield with firmly-clenched hands

And gripped in the teeth, push forward through lands.

The peacock feathers: conduct ever wise

And seasoned counsel - a symbol - their eyes.

Gifts lavished nobly in service of Mars

And gladly granted to science and arts;

A green olive branch could justly adorn

A place by the sword, on which they had sworn.

Their helmet merits a wreath of glory:

Honor - Duty - thus unfolds the story.

A Kress urged with zeal the religious Pact,

Signed the Peace - these be recognized facts.

Ah! May Nuremberg's stronghold lose them never.

Dear God, spare them forever and ever!

Author unknown

source text from Kress Family History by von Frank. Vienna 1930 on pages 25-26