This surname ANDREASON was originally derived from the Greek Andreas, a name meaning manly. It was the name of the first of Jesus Christ's disciples, which is known in various local forms throughout Christendom. The disciple is the patron saint of Scotland and there is a legend that his relics were brought to Scotland in the 4th century by a certain St. Regulus. The origin of badges and emblems, are traced to the earliest times, although, Heraldry, in fact, cannot be traced later than the 12th century, or at furthest the 11th century. At first armorial bearings were probably like surnames and assumed by each warrior at his free will and pleasure, his object being to distinguish himself from others. It has long been a matter of doubt when bearing Coats of Arms first became hereditary. It is known that in the reign of Henry V (1413-1422), a proclamation was issued, prohibiting the use of heraldic ensigns to all who could not show an original and valid right, except those 'who had borne arms at Agincourt'. The College of Arms (founded in 1483) is the Royal corporation of heralds who record proved pedigrees and grant armorial bearings. The bulk of European surnames in countries such as England and France were formed in the 13th and 14th centuries. The process started earlier and continued in some places into the 19th century, but the norm is that in the 11th century people did not have surnames, whereas by the 15th century they did. A notable member of the name was da Firenza ANDREA (c.l343-l377) the Florentine painter. His most famous work is the monumental frescoe cycle in the Spanish chapel of the Dominican Church of Saint Maria Novella in Florence painted about l366-l368. These paintings, an elaborate celebration of the Dominican doctrine are the most unusual and impressive mural scheme of the time : the whole interior surface of the building is covered with descriptive scenes, painted in a meticulously detailed but severe and somewhat rigid style. Many panel paintings of varying quality are attributed to him but, his only other documented work is the "Life of Saint Ramieri" frescoes in the Camposanto in Pisa completed in l377.