The Warenne family arrived in England with William the Conqueror. William de Warenne is recorded as fighting in the battle of Hastings and was created first Earl of Surrey. He was rewarded with lands in Sussex, Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex. His seats included Lewes in Sussex, Conisburgh Castle, Yorkshire and Castle Acre, Norfolk.

The Warenes continued to hold the earldom of Surrey until the death of John de Warenne in 1347 when the title passed to his nephew Richard Fitzalan. John de Warenne was deeply involved the struggles between Edward II and his wife Queen Isabella. He was particularly opposed to the rise of Piers Gaveston, Edward II's favourite and became involved in a lengthy private war with the Earl of Lancaster, which led to the loss of many of his lands.

This is an example of the type of retainer's badge which powerful noblemen gave to their followers, to identify them as part of their retinue and entitled to their protection. Livery badges were worn on the person or attached to the horse harness. This practice became so associated with political and social instability that efforts by Parliament were made to suppress it.