The fleur-de-lis is one historically very popular symbol all around the world. The fleur-de-lis tattoo has many meanings and history attached to it.
- History and symbolism of the fleur-de-lis.
The fleur-de-lis was historically the symbol of the monarchy of France, which was first popularized during the twelfth century by Louis VI. Its broad appeal actually owes to its use of the holy number three and the symmetric through the curved design of the three leaves, which are banded together near the bottom. The fleur-de-lis has been connected with Joan of Arc, and so also with the freedom of oppression.
This is a very popular symbol that has a connection with royalty, religion, as well as medieval times. Even though it had its uses in Mesopotamia, India, and Egypt, the fleur-de-lis is actually most commonly depicted on European coats-of-arms and flags, from the early Middle Ages until today. It is particularly common in countries, as well as cities with French influence. Nowadays, you may find the fleur-de-lis on the state flag of Louisiana, and also as the symbol of the New Orleans Saints and the Mardi Gras of New Orleans.
The fleur-de-lis is the iconic symbol of Frankish or other Western European nobilities. In English, it is translated to “flower of the lily” even though it not clear as to whether the symbol represents lilies or irises, and was a regal symbol for centuries. According to some beliefs, the design of this symbol comes as an inspiration from the beautiful irises which grow naturally along the Lys River, in France, where the symbol probably originates.
Alternatively, as the fleur-de-lis translates to lily flower in French, it could even be modeled after the lily. With all of the associations to flowers, it is not a wonder that this symbol is in a close relationship with the feminine purity.
While this symbol has a long history of being connected with various regal families, at the core it does command certain prestige. Those that understand this symbol know that it is symbolic of nobility, honor, integrity, and dignity.
One of the main reasons that this symbol gained increasing popularity over the past years is as of its associations today. In Christianity, the symbol has its connection to the Virgin Mary, and it represents its divinity. Although the symbol dates back centuries and it has been utilized to signify honor. Today the symmetry and balance of the design attracted an entirely new audience that appreciates the beauty more than the history.
- Fleur-de-lis tattoos, and their meanings and symbolism.
While a lot of people get this tattoo design for its regality, there are also several other meanings that work just as well.
Nowadays, those people that choose to get inked with the fleur-de-lis tattoos have respect for some history, and they even connect with the honor and philosophy and family on a more profound level.
To them, honor within the family means everything, regardless of the fact if they get inked with the aim of remembering deceased loved ones or also as a tribute to the history of their family.
The fleur-de-lis tattoo was a staple in Spanish, Italian, and French history for many years; however, the connection to honoring and nobility is what pulled this symbol to today and given it new life in the form of body art. Those that have a very deep respect for their family and honor the tradition have come to know the symbol, and respect everything related to it.
This is a type of design for which there is no need of explanation, because you will either understand it at the core for its connection with nobility, or you are going to appreciate it for being a very beautiful piece of art.
The fleur-de-lis usually also has the meaning of power. The truth actually is that a lot of powerful countries, families, cities, or organizations utilized it as a symbol in one way or another. So it is not a surprise that a lot of people think of power and authority when they see it, and that’s why they use it in tattoo art. Another meaning of a fleur-de-lis tattoo would be good luck or hope.
These are some of the meanings which associate with this type of tattoo design. Take a look at them before you decide to get the fleur-de-lis tattoo:
- Royalty;
- Religion;
- Wealth;
- Glory;
- Honor;
- Hope;
- Faith;
- Christianity;
- Virgin Mary;
- Power;
- Valor;
- Unity;
- Allegiance;
- Strength;
- Nobility and so on.
This tattoo can appear in different colors and styles, and there are a lot of ways you can be creative. A fleur-de-lis tattoo may also appear in different sizes. Even though a small fleur-de-lis may be a striking tattoo design, we suggest you a medium-sized fleur-de-lis, as it will better capture the beautiful details of the shapes, and it will permit for a 3D look.
