Medieval and Manuscripts

Fleur-de-lis

The fleur-de-lis, also spelled fleur-de-lys (plural fleurs-de-lis or fleurs-de-lys), is a common heraldic charge in the (stylized) shape of a lily (French fleur 'flower' and lis 'lily'). Most notably, the fleur-de-lis is depicted on multiple flags of Quebec and on the traditional coat of arms of France that was used from the High Middle Ages until the French Revolution in 1789, and then again in brief periods in the 19th century. This design still represents France and its royal dynasty in the form of marshalling on the arms of other countries and jurisdictions, including Spain, Quebec and Canada. Other European nations have also employed the symbol. The fleur-de-lis became "at one and the same time, religious, political, dynastic, artistic, emblematic, and symbolic", especially in French heraldry. The Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph are among saints often depicted with a lily. Some modern usage of the fleur-de-lis reflects "the continuing presence of heraldry in everyday life", often intentionally, but also when users are not aware that they are "prolonging the life of centuries-old insignia and emblems".

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See also

• ▸Light in painting
• ▸Cathedral of St John the Evangelist, Portsmouth
• ▸Church of Crete

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