The Fleur-de-Lis is everywhere and is one of the most ubiquitous symbols there is, so much so that it’s often not even noticed. The popularity of the Fleur-de-Lis comes in part from its majestic design and the symbol is commonly found in architecture, decorative items, fashion, logos and coats of arms today. Here’s how it originated and what it represents.
The symbol is most commonly associated with France and gets its name from the French for lily flower. The visual representation is a stylistic rendering of a lily or lotus flower. Lis-de-jardin or garden lily refers to non-stylistic, accurate images of lilies.
The Fleur-de-Lis is also a part of the coat of arms for Spain, dating to its connection with the French houses of bourbon and Anjou. Canada also has the Fleur-de-Lis as part of their coat of arms, symbolizing the influence of their French settlers.
The Fleur-de-Lis is the central part of the Scouts logo after first being used by Sir Robert Baden-Powell. Baden-Powell initially used the symbol as armbands to identify soldiers who qualified as scouts. He then used the emblem on badges that he gave to the boys attending the first Boy Scouts camp. He later revealed that he had a few reasons for choosing the symbol.
Dani Rhys has worked as a writer and editor for over 15 years. She holds a Masters degree in Linguistics and Education, and has also studied Political Science, Ancient History and Literature. She has a wide range of interests ranging from ancient cultures and mythology to Harry Potter and gardening. She works as the chief editor of Symbol Sage but also takes the time to write on topics that interest her.
The fleur-de-lis is an iconic symbol that permeates modern culture. You can find the design at the top of fence posts, on the north point of a compass, on the pattern of fabrics, and in the details of countless designs. With each use, the fleur-de-lis holds unique symbolism. In a religious context, it may denote purity. French monarchs used the symbol to denote the divine right to rule. Ancient Egyptians used it to represent the snake that bit and killed Cleopatra.
You’ll likely recognize the symbol, which typically has three petals attached at the base. It’s often presented plainly, but ornate or intricate variations are common as well.
Additionally, the Fleur-de-Lis was featured on the signet ring of Louis VII. Louis VII is also the first known King to have the auze seme of fleurs-de-lis (designated France Ancient) on his shield. Still, the symbol may have previously been in use on banners for other royal family members.
Occasionally, these variations have been given names to attempt to distinguish them from one and another, like the Fleur-de-Lis remplie, which represents the arms of Florence by the three petals separated by two stamens. Also, Charles V commanded the creation of the France Modern design of three fleurs-de-lis in 1376, possibly in honor of the Holy Trinity.
Perhaps your family has used the flower in other ways? Share in FamilySearch Memories where you’ve found the fleur-de-lis in your family’s history, or search your family’s memories to see if you can find it.
The Fleur-de-Lis’ use by noble families, like the French royal family, represents their connection to the church. On the other hand, English Kings adopted the symbol into their coats of arms to show their claim to the throne of France.
Como o filho do Homem é a representação de tudo que há de edificante, belo, majestoso, nobre, valoroso, positivo, o antônimo absoluto do mal, a flor de lis passou a ganhar associações muito do agrado dos que integravam ou queriam integrar a realeza:
Outra possibilidade aventada é que a flor de lis na verdade foi inspirada em uma arma de guerra medieval, uma espécie de lança de combate, cujo formato de uma de suas extremidades é bem semelhante com a imagem da flor de lis. Além do formato parecido essa lança tem três pontas.
A tão famosa e retratada flor de lis é um lírio, planta, flor que foi representada graficamente em diversos brasões, heráldicas, escudos da realeza francesa, a época de Luís XIII, quando tal símbolo, arte, ficou conhecido como flor de lis.
The Fleur-de-Lis has three petals with a larger pointed center petal and two leaves breaking off from it. As the design of the Fleur-de-Lis has been influenced by the limitations and tastes of craftsman, there are several variations to the symbol.