- 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.
Morris Joseph Wosk
Vancouver, British Columbia
Grant of Arms
March 6, 2002
Vol. IV, p. 199
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Gules a lion passant guardant winged holding in its dexter paw a Menorah Or;
Crest
Issuant from a circlet of orchid flowers alternating with magnolia flowers Argent, a Torah crown Or with a Magen David in the centre and a jewel in the base Azure;
Motto
WISDOM UNITY STRENGTH;
Symbolism
Arms
The red and gold colours are Mr. Wosk’s choice. The lion symbolizes the lion of Judah and strength of purpose and character. The menorah honours the family and Mr. Wosk’s Jewish heritage.
Crest
The Torah crown is a reference to the tribe of Levi, to which the Wosk family belongs, and to the subgroup of Moses who were involved in education and ritual and who supported the Kohen, or priestly group (and thus to Mr. Wosk’s Hebrew name, Moshe Aharon). The crown also refers to the primacy of the Law as well as the rich aesthetic traditions of Judaism. The orchids honour Mrs. Wosk, while the magnolias represent the family’s home in British Columbia. The magnolia is also a symbol of spring and of hope. The Hebrew words on the band mean “Sanctified to God”.
Motto
Not applicable
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on February 22, 2003, in Volume 137, page 519 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
Eva Pilar-Cass
Calligrapher
Doris Wionzek
Recipient Information
Individual