tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52691123942811612412011-04-21T18:07:01.654-07:00This Blogger Template Theme from www.mitchinson.net. I Just Edit It For Blogger template. Please respect The Designer. ThanksGarpuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448657648957898212noreply@blogger.comBlogger11100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5269112394281161241.post-13749809762895857492007-07-01T05:44:00.000-07:002007-07-01T05:45:50.815-07:00The fleur-de-lis, sometimes spelled fleur-de-lys, is an ancient symbol, although it has come to be closely associated with the nation of France. It consists of three spikes resembling the petals of a flower rising from a central crossbar, and it is clearly intended to represent an iris or lily. Highly stylized floral designs have been used in art and heraldry for a very long time, and the fleur-de-lis is one of the most enduring of these symbols. The basic stylized iris design appears on pottery from ancient civilizations including Mesopotamia and Ancient Greece.<br /><br />In Old French, the name translates into “flower of the lily.” The symbolism of a fleur-de-lis goes beyond the simple floral image, however. Lilies are associated with the Virgin Mary, and the fleur-de-lis is closely associated with Mary and her virtues as well, as a result. The three spikes are suggestive of the Holy Trinity, and also of a common trio of Christian values: faith, wisdom, and chastity. As such, the fleur-de-lis serves as a symbol of purity and Christian faith.<br /><br />Around the 1200s, the fleur-de-lis was adopted as a symbol by the French royalty. Using a holy symbol enforced the idea that the ruler was governing by the will of God, and also that members of the French royalty embodied the virtues suggested by the fleur-de-lis. The symbol has other heraldic uses as well, and appears on crests from many other nations including England and Scotland.<br /><br />In addition to being a heraldic symbol, the fleur-de-lis is also used decoratively. It is often used in ironwork, and as a motif for wall paper, fabric patterns, tile, and book bindings. Many people who feel a close connection with France and French culture have fleur-de-lis ornaments around the home, while numerous organizations use the fleur-de-lis in their logos. It also appears on some regional flags, especially since the classic association with French royalty is beginning to fade.<br /><br />The proportions and dimensions of the fleur-de-lis vary, depending on the setting. As a general rule, the center spike or petal is larger and more rounded than the two which flank it. Underneath the crossbar, a decorative flourish meant to serve as a continuation of the petals is common. A variety of colors and shades can be used, and many artists draw a fleur-de-lis which is split into two colors, for distinct contrast. Highly stylized designs may bear little resemblance to the original fleur-de-lis, but are generally recognizable because the symbol is so universal.<br /><br />Source http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-fleur-de-lis.htm<div class="blogger-post-footer"><img width='1' height='1' src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/tracker/5269112394281161241-1374980976289585749?l=test-fleur.blogspot.com' alt='' /></div>Garpuhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448657648957898212noreply@blogger.com0