A Canadian Heraldic Primer: Heraldry is now, heraldry is fun, and most of all, heraldry is Canadian. A Canadian Heraldic Primer dispels, once and for all, the myth that coats of arms are boring, snobbish, mediaeval holdovers that have no relevance today.
Using cartoons, humour, and not a little irreverence, (in which is concealed a surprising amount of information), Kevin Greaves explains the history behind heraldry's unique conventions and language, and explores its creative possibilities. He shows heraldry as a part of Canada’s past, present and future, and illustrates how this lively art has become even livier clues Canada became master of its own heraldic system in 1988.
The main purpose of this book is to interest Canadians, young and old, in heraldry—and particularly Canadian heraldry, which is rapidly becoming a distinct form of this ancient art.
This is the first book published on Canadian heraldry since the establishment of the Canadian Heraldic Authority at Government House in 1988.
In addition to its interest for the general reader, the Primer will find its place as an aid to teachers, since its informality of presentation and layout are attractive to young people.
Despite its light touch, the book is entirely authoritative. It includes forewords by the Governor General and the Chief Herald of Canada.
The Primer covers five main areas:
- The history and development of heraldry in Europe.
- The unique conventions and language of the art.
- Specialized types of heraldry and corporate and ecclesiastical arms.
- Heraldry in a Canadian context and the Canadian Heraldic Authority; arms for women; aboriginal heraldry; the development oft distinctive Canadian heraldic style.
- How to design, apply for, and use your own arms.
The Heraldry Society of Canada welcomes everyone to join who gets bitten by the heraldry bug. An application form can be found on this website.
THE AUTHOR AND ILLUSTRATORS
Dr. Kevin Greaves, a retired physician living in Hamilton, Ontario, became interested in heraldry as a boy, and as the author of many articles on heraldry is well known in the Canadian heraldic community. Bruce Patterson is editor of the popular quarterly magazine Hogtown Heraldry and has recently been appointed Saguenay Herald at the Canadian Heraldic Authority.
Gordon Macpherson is Canada's most well known and respected heraldic artist. Fascinated by heraldry since his student days, Macpherson. has since designed and painted the costs of arms granted to many prominent Canadians. He has recently been honoured by time Governor General with the title Niagara Herald Extraordinary. All three are active members of the Heraldry Society of Canada
A Canadian Heraldic Primer is a cheery look at heraldry (Canadian and otherwise). Because we can sell direct to our members, without paying commissions or discounts, we can offer the book at a great regular price of $12.95, including shipping and handling.