Massachusetts State Seal - Official Symbol of the Commonwealth #1781192 (License: Personal Use)

The seal of Massachusetts features a blue shield with a white five-pointed star, a Native American figure in gold holding a bow (pointed downward) and an arrow (pointed upward), signifying peace through strength. Above the shield is a golden arm holding a broadsword, and a blue ribbon encircles the shield bearing the Latin motto “Ense Petit Placidam, Sub Libertate Quietem” (“By the Sword We Seek Peace, but Peace Only Under Liberty”). The design was adopted in 1775 and revised in 1885 and 1971 to reflect contemporary values.

This image is used on government websites, official documents, educational resources, and civic materials to represent the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. It serves users seeking authoritative information about state symbols, history, or governance.