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

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Cowichan Herald Extraordinary, Canadian Heraldic Authority

Ottawa, Ontario
Grant of a Badge of Office
May 2, 2001
Vol. IV, p. 116

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


Blazon

Badge

On a sun in splendour Or, the horned dog Wagaas and the eagle Yuhwala respectant Gules as styled by the Salish artist Wayne Charlie;


Symbolism

Badge

The badge refers to the meaning of the word Cowichan, “place warmed by the sun”. The red spindle whorl motif in the centre symbolizing the creation of life, in the Salish style, is based on a design by Cowichan artist Wayne Charlie. It features a horned dog, Wagaas, and an eagle Yuhwula, two of the most important creatures from traditional Cowichan teachings.


Background

Canada Gazette Information

The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on November 3, 2001, in Volume 135, page 4057 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
Gordon Macpherson

Calligrapher
Judith Bainbridge


Recipient Information

Civil Institution
National (Officer)