- 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.
David Alan Scharf
Ottawa, Ontario
Grant of Arms and Badge
May 20, 2022
Vol. VIII, p. 92
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Or on a pile Vert cotised wavy Azure an African elephant ambulant affronty Or;
Crest
A Necker cube Or balanced on a Penrose triangle Azure, Vert and Or;
Motto
SÆPE RIDETE;
Badge
An isosceles triangle Vert charged with an African elephant, its trunk raised, leading by its tail an elephant calf Or;
Symbolism
Arms
Green and gold are the colours of the flag of Saskatchewan, Mr. Scharf’s home province. The elephant is inspired by a Congolese saying about perseverance that he cherishes: “Carry your burdens with the strength and will of an elephant.” The triangle with wavy blue lines alludes to the prow of a ship pressing through the sea, representing his years in the Royal Canadian Navy and thus serving as a reminder of the importance of public service.
Crest
The Necker cube and the Penrose triangle reflect Mr. Scharf’s life-long interest in philosophy, particularly epistemology, ethics, and skepticism. The optical illusion reminds the viewer that the truth is not always apparent, and one ought to reflect upon the evidence and challenge one’s intrinsic biases before reaching a conclusion.
Motto
This Latin phrase, meaning “Laugh often,” is inspired by Mr. Scharf’s life motto: “Learn, laugh, love, cry, and dream. Care deeply. Don’t hate. Mostly, though, laugh. Share the passion of life’s grand adventure.”
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 October 29, 2022, in Volume 156, page 5124 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Alix Chartrand, Saguenay Herald, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Painter
Melissa Aberin
Calligrapher
Yolande Lessard
Recipient Information
Individual