Arms of Cluny Macpherson
Arms of Cluny Macpherson
Blazon
Per fess Or and Azure, a fess wavy per fess wavy Vert and Argent surmounted by a lymphad Or sails furled and masted proper flagged Gules, between two caribou heads couped respectant Or attired Gules, in the dexter canton a hand couped fesswise holding a dagger, in the sinister canton a cross-crosslet fitché Gules;
Symbolism
The Canadian Heraldic Authority does not have confirmed symbolism for this emblem. The following comments are hypotheses only. The lymphad, the hand holding a dagger and the cross are common to coats of arms belonging to members of the Scottish Macpherson clan. The caribou head is the emblem of the Royal Newfoundland Regiment, in which Dr. Macpherson was a lieutenant-colonel.
Crest of Cluny Macpherson
Blazon
A cat sejant proper between two caribou antlers Or;
Symbolism
The Canadian Heraldic Authority does not have confirmed symbolism for this emblem. The following comments are hypotheses only. A wildcat is commonly used in Scottish Macpherson crests. The antlers repeat the symbolism of the caribou from the Arms.
Motto of Cluny Macpherson
Blazon
NE’ER BUT A GLOVE;
Symbolism
This phrase, meaning “Never unless gloved,” is a variation on the motto of the Macpherson clan chief, “Touch not the cat but a glove.” Here, the glove refers to the soft parts of the paw of the cat. When it assumes a war-like stance, the paw becomes spread or “ungloved,” revealing the dangerous claws. It is a warning to those who engage in battle with the Macpherson clan.