- 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.
Jean-Louis Roux
Ottawa, Ontario
Grant of Arms and Supporters
March 26, 2002
Vol. IV, p. 200
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Gules in chief the masks of comedy and tragedy, in base a neutral mask Argent;
Crest
A secretary bird (Sagittarius serpentarius) proper holding in its dexter claw an open book Argent bound Gules, standing on a rock set with grass proper;
Supporters
Two grey wolves howling on a grassy compartment set with snow-capped mountains and pine trees proper;
Motto
AIDER AUTRUI;
Symbolism
Arms
The theatrical masks refer to His Honour’s profession as an actor. Their varied expressions reflect the range of emotions that an actor needs to feel and convey.
Crest
The secretary bird is the choice of His Honour. The book held in its claws underlines the need for actors to memorize their roles; it also refers to the work of His Honour as an author and translator and to his contribution to the field of arts in general. The grass-covered rock represents the difficulties encountered during a lifetime and the self-discipline required to overcome them.
Supporters
The howling wolf is a symbol of calling forth and gathering together. The mound depicts the scenery of the region of Savoy in France, from where His Honour’s paternal grandfather originated.
Motto
This French phrase means “To help others.”
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 Auguste Vachon, Saint-Laurent Herald, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Authority
Painter
Eva Pilar-Cass
Calligrapher
Karen Mackay
Recipient Information
Individual
Lieutenant-Governor