So many of us love the Fleur De Lis symbol and at Ma Maison we carry many products with it on them, but how many of us actually know what it means? We get asked that question all the time so we decided to research it and let everyone know. The fleur-de-lis (or fleur-de-lys; plural) is a stylized lily (in French, fleur means flower, and lis means lily) literally meaning “lily flower” which is used as a decorative design or symbol in the form of three tapering petals tied by a surrounding band, formerly used by the kings of France.
Decorative ornaments that resemble the fleur-de-lis have appeared in artwork from the earliest human civilizations. It has consistently been used as a royal emblem, though different cultures have interpreted it’s meaning in varying ways. The three petals of the heraldic design reflect a widespread association with the Holy Trinity, a tradition going back to 14th century France.
Some modern usage of the fleur-de-lis reflects “the continuing presence of heraldry in everyday life.” Fleurs-de-lis have been featured on military badges like those of the Israeli Intelligence Corps, or have been chosen for sports teams such as the New Orleans Saints American football or coats of arms and logos for universities like the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. Marc-André Fleury, a Canadian ice hockey goaltender, has a fleur-de-lis logo on his mask and there are even two surgical procedures called “after the fleur.” Fleur-De-Lis is also the name of a small village in the South Wales Valleys.
Regardless of the origin or uses today, we can all agree that this decorative symbol has been popular throughout the ages and we at Ma Maison still find it beautiful. We welcome you to come by the store and see for yourself all the decorative applications of the fleur de lis we have; from candles, to wall sconces, pillows, magnets, glassware—you name it, we’ve got it!
Ma Maison is open everyday in the Valencia Crossroads Shopping center, located at 24266 Valencia Boulevard in Valencia. For more information, please call 661-799-7983.