This publication consists of two volumes of photographs and the coats of arms of the clergy of Canada from 1657-1933. Volume 1 contains four parts: The Pope, the bishops of Quebec, Ontario and West Canada. Volume 2 contains photos of the clergy from the Maritime Provinces. Each page contains a copy of the coat of arms, a photograph and a short biographical entry.

This collection contains materials pertaining to heraldry and was collected by William F.J. Ryan. The collection mostly holds examples of heraldic visual design or more commonly known as coat of arms. There are many examples related to the Catholic Church, which was the specialty of Ryan's firm. Additionally, there are scrapbooks, brochures and other materials related to heraldry or the Academie Internationale d'Heraldique.