- 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.
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada
Ottawa, Ontario
Registration of Arms
July 9, 1993
Vol. II, p. 254
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Per pale Purpure and Gules a rod of Aesculapius ensigned by a coronet of four maple leaves set upon a rim Or;
Crest
An eagle regardant Or crowned with a Royal Crown and supporting with the dexter talon a Mace erect Or tipped with a maple leaf Gules veined Or;
Motto
MENTE PERSPICUA MANUQUE APTA;
Symbolism
Arms
The purple and red colours represent physicians and surgeons respectively, recalling the college gowns worn by fellows in the division of medicine and the division of surgery. The rod of Aesculapius is the traditional symbol of medicine, and appeared on the original seal of the college in 1929. The coronet of maple leaves indicates that the college is a Canadian body with royal designation and a royal charter.
Crest
This is based on the crest of the college’s sister organization, the Royal College of Surgeons of England. This version uses a maple leaf at the head of the mace, as well as different colouring for the eagle.
Motto
This Latin phrase, meaning “With a keen mind and skillful hand”, was used on the original seal of the college.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on November 6, 1993, in Volume 127, page 3406 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Alan Beddoe and the heralds of the College of Arms, London.
Painter
Gordon Macpherson
Calligrapher
Judith Bainbridge
Recipient Information
Civil Institution
Learned Society & Professional Organization
The recipient's emblems were originally recorded in the records of the College of Arms, London, England, 20 November 1962.