Arms of the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo Society
Arms of the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo Society
Blazon
Azure fretty of bendlets Argent and bendlets sinister Or;
Symbolism
The white (heraldic silver) represents the Tattoo’s 25th anniversary. Blue and white are the colours of Nova Scotia, with the blue also evoking the Nova Scotia tartan. The gold symbolizes the colour of the brass instruments played by bands at the Tattoo. The diagonal pattern reflects the intricate crossover of musicians marching that is often a feature of presentations. The pattern of diagonals is a subtle reference to the tartans worn by participants at the event.
Crest of the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo Society
Blazon
A demi-lion guardant Azure holding a staff Or flying therefrom a flag Azure charged with the Royal Crown proper;
Symbolism
The lion represents the power of the Tattoo to entertain and inspire through music and marching. The Royal Crown on the flag it holds indicates that the Tattoo was given royal designation by H.M. The Queen in the spring of 2006.
Motto of the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo Society
Blazon
BEÒTHAICHIDH SINN AN CRIDHE AGUS GAIRMIDH SINN DHACHAIDH SIBH;
Symbolism
This Gaelic phrase means “We stir the heart and call you home” and indicates that the spectacle of the Tattoo inspires us and invites us to think of our country and ancestral homelands.
Supporters of the Royal Nova Scotia International Tattoo Society
Blazon
Two unicorns Or armed crined and unguled Argent standing on a compartment of mayflowers and thistle flowers proper;
Symbolism
The unicorn appears in the arms of Nova Scotia and the Royal Arms for Scotland and for Canada. The horn of the unicorns is an additional reference to an important group of instruments in the Tattoo. The mayflowers and thistles symbolize Nova Scotia and Scotland, the musical heritage of which is such a strong aspect of the Tattoo.
