- The Governor General of Canada
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AMBCANADA
Ottawa, Ontario
Grant of Arms, Supporters and Badges
November 15, 2024
Vol. VIII, p. 321
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Blazon
Arms
Per fess enarched Azure and tessellated of maple leaves Argent and Gules, in chief a dove volant Argent;
Crest
A truss bridge Argent;
Supporters
Two hippogriffs Or beaked, armed, unguled and winged Argent, each supporting a caduceus Gules and charged on the shoulder with a torteau, that to the dexter bearing an astrolabe that to the sinister set with eight billets their bases inwards, both supporters standing on a round tabletop draped Argent;
Motto
FORIS CANADÆ PRODESSE;
Symbolism
Arms
Red and white are the colours of Canada, and blue symbolizes loyalty. The colours also represent how diplomats have travelled throughout history: by land (represented by red), by sea (blue) and by air or virtually (white). The curved line suggests the curvature of the globe. The maple leaves illustrate Canada’s international outreach through its foreign missions. The intermeshing pattern alludes to communication, which is at the core of foreign service work, and its intricate chequerboard design refers to the strategies of diplomacy. The dove embodies peace, the ultimate goal of diplomats.
Crest
The bridge represents the Minto Bridges, located near the headquarters of the department of Global Affairs in Ottawa. It embodies the connections that diplomats endeavour to build between Canada and other nations.
Supporters
The mythical hippogriff is the embodiment of freedom, alluded to by its combined characteristics of an eagle and a horse. Said to be able to fly to the moon, to have the eagle’s keen vision and to always protect its rider, the hippogriff thus also represents the diplomats who travel far, think with resolve, and advance Canadian interests. As the attribute of the Greek god Hermes, the caduceus is the mark of the traveller, messenger, and bringer of peace. The round table evokes meetings and discussions between people from different places. The astrolabe was used by explorers like Samuel de Champlain and illustrates how diplomats navigate international partnerships. The rectangles allude to documents such as letters of credence, treaties, briefing notes and diplomatic communications.
Motto
This Latin phrase means “In the service of Canada abroad.”