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Ottawa, Ontario
Grant of Arms, Supporters and Badges
November 15, 2024
Vol. VIII, p. 321
Arms of AMBCANADABlazonPer fess enarched Azure and tessellated of maple leaves Argent and Gules, in chief a dove volant Argent; SymbolismRed and white are the colours of Canada, and blue symbolizes loyalty. The colours also represent how diplomats have travelled throughout history: by land (represented by red), by sea (blue) and by air or virtually (white). The curved line suggests the curvature of the globe. The maple leaves illustrate Canada’s international outreach through its foreign missions. The intermeshing pattern alludes to communication, which is at the core of foreign service work, and its intricate chequerboard design refers to the strategies of diplomacy. The dove embodies peace, the ultimate goal of diplomats. |
CrestBlazonA truss bridge Argent; SymbolismThe bridge represents the Minto Bridges, located near the headquarters of the department of Global Affairs in Ottawa. It embodies the connections that diplomats endeavour to build between Canada and other nations. |
MottoBlazonFORIS CANADÆ PRODESSE; SymbolismThis Latin phrase means “In the service of Canada abroad.” |
SupportersBlazonTwo hippogriffs Or beaked, armed, unguled and winged Argent, each supporting a caduceus Gules and charged on the shoulder with a torteau, that to the dexter bearing an astrolabe that to the sinister set with eight billets their bases inwards, both supporters standing on a round tabletop draped Argent; SymbolismThe mythical hippogriff is the embodiment of freedom, alluded to by its combined characteristics of an eagle and a horse. Said to be able to fly to the moon, to have the eagle’s keen vision and to always protect its rider, the hippogriff thus also represents the diplomats who travel far, think with resolve, and advance Canadian interests. As the attribute of the Greek god Hermes, the caduceus is the mark of the traveller, messenger, and bringer of peace. The round table evokes meetings and discussions between people from different places. The astrolabe was used by explorers like Samuel de Champlain and illustrates how diplomats navigate international partnerships. The rectangles allude to documents such as letters of credence, treaties, briefing notes and diplomatic communications. |
Badge of AMBCANADABlazonA torteau charged with an astrolabe Argent, cotised by seven demi-torteaux and ensigned by a coronet of maple leaves Gules and wings Argent; SymbolismThe disc and half discs allude to a round table around which diplomats are seated to talk. The crown and its maple leaves embody service to Canada, while its wings refer to the winged hat and shoes of Hermes, the mythical messenger and traveller. The symbolism of the astrolabe and rectangles repeats that of the elements on the supporters’ shoulders. |
Badge of AMBCANADABlazonA torteau charged with eight billets their bases inwards Argent, cotised by seven demi-torteaux and ensigned by a coronet of maple leaves Gules and wings Argent; SymbolismThe symbolism of this emblem is found in other element(s) of this record. |
BackgroundCanada Gazette InformationSince 2023, grants, registrations and approvals of heraldic emblems are no longer announced in the Canada Gazette.  |
Additional InformationCreator(s)Original concept of Fabienne Fusade, Miramichi Herald, assisted by the heralds of the Canadian Heraldic Authority. PainterMelissa Aberin CalligrapherKathy Feig Recipient TypeCivil Institution |