Mace

Description of Mace

The ceremonial Mace holds great cultural significance for the Inuit people of Nunavut. On March 30th, 1999, this carved symbol of authority was unveiled publicly for the first time in the main assembly hall of the legislative building.

Crafted from locales stone and Labradorite, the mace is grasped firmly yet gently in the hands of a male and female figurine. For the Inuit, the representation of both genders indicates the values of equality and mutual respect that are fundamental to their society.

At the opening of each new session, the mace leads a procession to mark the convening of parliamentary business. Carried aloft on the right shoulder of the Sergeant-at-Arms, it is trailed by pages turning the fingers of apprenticeship and clerks ensuring due process. When borne at a lower level, it denotes a time of recess or committee debate. Yet raised on high beneath the chamber’s soaring roof beams, the mace signifies supreme authority resting with the Speaker’s chair.

This symbol has evolved greatly from its original form as a practical weapon of defense. Born in the courts of 12th century England and France as the arms of royal protection, the mace was wielded by guards charged with the monarch’s safety. Now repurposed as an emblem of enabling governance, it watches over the Legislative Assembly with steadfast vigilance. As with Inuit cultural traditions, the mace adapts to new purposes while retaining ties to the heritage and principles of its origins. Its stature represents both the sovereign powers and communal spirit of legislative democracy in Nunavut.

Style Variations

Bold – Light – Solid – Duotone
Each variation is included in the file package