- 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.
Ronald Chow
Toronto, Ontario
Grant of Arms
September 15, 2021
Vol. VIII, p. 16
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Argent four shuttlecocks in saltire bases inwards, a chief embattled Gules platé;
Crest
A three-masted Chinese junk Gules sails unfurled Argent;
Symbolism
Arms
The red and white colours, as well as the crenellation, are taken from the coat of arms of the former British colony of Hong Kong to highlight Mr. Chow’s family ties to the city during the colonial period. Red and white are also the colours of Canada, the country to which Mr. Chow’s grandparents immigrated. Furthermore, the white crenellated section alludes to a battlement and symbolizes Mr. Chow’s professional vocation as a doctor to protect his patients’ health. The disks on the red portion allude to white blood cells, therefore evoking Mr. Chow’s particular interest in epidemiology and medical research. The shuttlecocks represent Mr. Chow’s fondness for, and skill in, badminton. They are laid out in the shape of a wheel to symbolize time and serve as a cautionary reminder of our mortality in a time of scientific progress. The empty spaces between the shuttlecocks form a cross, thus representing Mr. Chow’s Christian faith.
Crest
The Chinese junk has long been known for its efficiency as a strong, safe and speedy vessel, leading some historians to describe it as a laboratory for innovative techniques. It therefore symbolizes Mr. Chow’s love of efficiency and structure, as well as his work in medical research.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on December 11, 2021, in Volume 155, page 5670 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Fabienne Fusade, Miramichi Herald, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
Katherine Golightly
Calligrapher
Kathy Feig
Recipient Information
Individual