- 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.
Yvan Joseph Pierre Bourdeau
Toronto, Ontario
Grant of Arms
June 7, 2000
Vol. IV, p. 34
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Argent two torteaux in pale each charged with a maple leaf Argent and rayonny of sixteen alternately Gules and Or;
Crest
A demi lion Gules wearing a circlet the rim set with bezants alternating with fleurs-de-lis Or and holding in its paws a beaker Argent;
Motto
CHISEI • LEADERSHIP • INTÉGRITÉ;
Symbolism
Arms
The design is centred on the shared national colours of Japan and Canada, the maple leaf, and the red sun disc from the flag of Japan. These references indicate Mrs. Bourdeau’s Japanese background and Mr. Bourdeau’s longstanding interest in Japanese-Canadian business cooperation. The sunburst represents both the light of knowledge and striving for excellence. The symbol is used twice for Mr. and Mrs. Bourdeau’s two daughters.
Crest
The lion symbolizes Mr. and Mrs. Bourdeau’s shared determination and strength. The flask is an indication of Mrs. Bourdeau’s profession as a pharmacist involved in medical research. The coronet made of fleurs-de-lis and gold discs, representative of coins, refers to Mr. Bourdeau’s Montreal birthplace and his career in international banking.
Motto
The first word, CHISEI, is a transcription of the Japanese word for “wisdom” or “knowledge”.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on March 24, 2001, in Volume 135, page 937 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
Debra MacGarvie
Calligrapher
Nancy Ellis
Recipient Information
Individual