- The Governor General of Canada
The contents of this Register are intended for research purposes only. The heraldic emblems found in the Register may not be reproduced in any form or in any media without the written consent of the Canadian Heraldic Authority and/or the recipient.
Canadian Heraldic Authority
Ottawa, Ontario
Grant of Arms, Batons, and Badges of Office
January 15, 1994
Vol. II, p. 281
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Blazon
Arms
Argent on a maple leaf Gules an inescutcheon Argent;
Crest
A lion passant guardant Or royally crowned Proper its dexter forepaw resting on an escutcheon Argent charged with a maple leaf Gules;
Supporters
On a representation of an outcrop of the Canadian Shield proper strewn with maple leaves Gules and maple seeds Or two raven-bears Gules over Argent wings elevated Gules beaked and armed Or;
Motto
HONORENTUR · PATRIAM · HONORANTES;
Symbolism
Arms
The nature and work of the Authority itself are represented in the shield of arms, on which Canada’s red maple leaf bears a plain white shield as a sign of heraldry to be created and recorded for Canadians.
Crest
The crest is a variation of the Royal Crest of Canada, emblematic of the viceregal office. In this case, the crowned Royal Lion carries a white shield bearing a red maple leaf, symbolizing the exercise of the Sovereign’s heraldic prerogative by the Governor General.
Supporters
The supporters are special heraldic beasts, half raven and half polar bear. Many First Nations in Canada regard the raven as a creator or transformer, while the polar bear is known for its strength and endurance. These supporters represent the responsibility of Canada's heralds to create symbols for a wide range of Canadian institutions and individuals. The supporters rest on an outcrop of the Canadian Shield, representing the solid foundations on which the Authority has been established.
Motto
The Latin motto can be translated as: "Let those who honour their country be honoured".