Introduction

Mar 14, 2007 11:03:50

The fleur-de-lis (or fleur-de-lys; plural: fleurs-de- lis) is a stylised design of an iris flower which is used both decoratively and symbolically. It may be purely ornamental or it may be "at one and the same time political, dynastic, artistic, emblematic and symbolic", especially in heraldry. While it has appeared on countless European coats of arms and flags over the centuries, the fleur-de-lis is particularly associated with the French monarchy. It is an enduring symbol of France, but, being regarded most notably as the emblem of the monarchy, was not adopted officially by any of the French republics. In North America the fleur-de-lis is often associated with areas formerly settled by France, such as Louisiana and Quebec. _____________________________________________ _______________________
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