- 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.
Joseph Louis Gérard Lafontaine
Masonville, Quebec
Grant of Arms, Flag and Badge
February 15, 2019
Vol. VII, p. 146
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Argent two naval swords in saltire proper surmounted by a compass rose Azure, in chief three roosters Gules;
Crest
A barred owl wings displayed proper, each charged with a fleur-de-lis Azure;
Motto
IN VERECUNDIA HONOS NASCITUR;
Flag
A banner of the Arms;
Badge
Two naval swords in saltire proper surmounted by a compass rose Azure;
Symbolism
Arms
Blue, white and red are the colours of France and honour Mr. Lafontaine’s French ancestry, as well as his spouse’s country of birth. The swords represent his career as a naval officer and are symbols of courage, fearlessness and victory. The compass rose also represents his career as a sailor and symbolizes exploration, travel and discovery. The rooster is a symbol of courage and of loyalty, and is also an emblem of France. A barnyard animal, it also represents the work of Mr. Lafontaine’s farmer ancestors. There are three roosters, to represent Mr. Lafontaine’s children.
Crest
The owl is a bird which represents happiness, good fortune and wisdom. It is also an important local symbol both in the township of Potton, in Quebec, where Mr. Lafontaine resides, and in Dijon, France, which is his spouse’s home town. The fleur-de-lis is a symbol of cultural identity both of France and of Quebec, and its blue colour further represents these affiliations.
Motto
This Latin phrase means “From respect springs honour.”
Flag
The symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record.
Badge
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 March 23, 2019, in Volume 153, page 1082 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Teva Vidal, Miramichi Herald, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
Ilona Jurkiewicz
Calligrapher
Yolande Lessard
Recipient Information
Individual