The Viceregal Lion
  1. The Governor General of Canada
Heraldry Today

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.

Lionel José Goffart

Toronto, Ontario
Grant of Arms and Flag
April 15, 2008
Vol. V, p. 278

Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.


Blazon

Arms

Per chevron Azure and Argent in chief two bezants, in base a lymphad Azure;

Crest

A demi-griffin Azure holding in its dexter claw a sword and in its sinister claw a treble clef Or;

Motto

HACIA MAS LEJANOS HORIZONTES;

Flag

A banner of the Arms;


Symbolism

Arms

The colours blue and white are those of the University of Toronto, Mr. Goffart’s alma mater. The two gold discs are a reference to finance, and to the legal specialty which has been the centre of Mr. Goffart’s practice. The ship represents his world travel.

Crest

The griffin has been connected with the concept of justice since the time of the ancient Greeks when it was portrayed as pulling the chariot of Nemesis, god of divine retribution. Here it represents Mr. Goffart’s legal career. The sword symbolizes the various elements of his military service, both in the regular and reserve forces. The gold treble clef symbolizes his love of music and contributions to the musical life of his community.

Motto

HACIA MAS LEJANOS HORIZONTES, meaning “Towards further horizons”.

Flag

The symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record.


Background

Canada Gazette Information

The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on November 22, 2008, in Volume 142, page 2983 of the Canada Gazette.


Artist Information

Creator(s)
Original concept of Robert D. Watt, Chief Herald of Canada, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.

Painter
Linda Nicholson

Calligrapher
Shirley Mangione


Recipient Information

Individual