- 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.
Jacques Gilbert Le Bel
Saint-Basile-le-Grand, Quebec
Grant of Arms
September 28, 1995
Vol. III, p. 49
Click on each image to enlarge. The blazon and symbolism for each element will accompany the enlarged image.
Blazon
Arms
Or on a chevron Gules between two eagles Sable armed and langued Gules in chief and a lion rampant Sable armed and langued Gules in base three fleurs-de-lis Argent;
Crest
Issuant from a crown Or heightened with fleurs-de-lis Azure and maple leaves Or set alternately a demi lion Gules holding in the dexter paw a maple leaf Argent;
Motto
SEMPER FIDELIS ET PERSEVERANS;
Symbolism
Arms
For Mr. Le Bel, gold represents strength and nobility of spirit. The fleurs-de-lis pay tribute to his French ancestors who settled in Canada. The eagles, which are well-known for their high flight and keen eyesight, embody the global vision that engineers, such as Mr. Le Bel, need in their science. The lion symbolizes strength, perseverance and courage.
Crest
The lion holding a maple leaf represents, for Mr. Le Bel, the openness of Canadians as well as his own spirit of peace and brotherhood. In this stance, the lion is calling others to defend Canada with strength, courage and loyalty so that its history can continue in harmony. The fleurs-de-lis and the maple leaves represent Mr. Le Bel’s Quebec and Canadian heritage.
Motto
This Latin phrase means “Always faithful and persevering”.
Background
Canada Gazette Information
The announcement of the Letters Patent was made on March 24, 2001, in Volume 135, page 936 of the Canada Gazette.
Artist Information
Creator(s)
Original concept of Jacques Le Bel, assisted by the Heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority
Painter
Robert Létourneau
Calligrapher
Nancy Ellis
Recipient Information
Individual