WE HONOUR THOSE WHO HONOUR US WITH THEIR SKILLS AND COMMITMENT

We all admire others and want to be respected in return. The accomplishments we value take many forms, as do the occasions at which we express our esteem. Some of the ceremonies that marked the presentation of the gifts shown here were grand and formal; others were less so. The recipients, however, were almost all prominent people.

Although we have no examples of a Mother's Day present from a child, a hug given to a loved one, or an anonymous bouquet of flowers, everyday marks of appreciation can be the most important tributes of all.

1. Ornamental Box, Official Gift, Centennial Year. David Chavel, Canada, 1967. Intended for President Charles de Gaulle of France, the box was never presented and instead was kept in storage at the Canadian Museum of Civilization. Skirmishes between federal and provincial authorities occurred during the visit of the French President. De Gaulle's speech from the balcony of Montreal City Hall marred the festive mood of the centennial year and led to his early departure from Canada. (992.17.1)
2. Eagle Headress, Micmac, given to Governor General Roland Michener during an Order of Good Cheer ceremony at Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia, August 1971. Gift of the Right Honourable Roland Michener. (D-7170)