Fleur-de-lis
Symbolism in religion and art

In the Middle Ages the symbols of lily and Fleur-de-lis overlapped considerably in Christian religious art. Until the 1300 the Fleur-de-lis was found in depictions of Jesus but gradually became associated with the Song of Solomon, “lily among thorns”, and understood as a reference to Mary. It has also throughout history as:

• Symbol of purity and chastity
• Symbol of virtue and spirituality
• Attributed to the Virgin
• Represented the Holy Trinity

Images of Mary holding the flower first appeared in the 11^th century on coins issued by cathedrals dedicated to her, and next on the seals of cathedral chapters, starting with Notre Dame de Paris in 1146.

The three petals of the heraldic design reflect a widespread association with the Holy Trinity, with the band on the bottom symbolizing Mary. The tradition says that without Mary you cannot understand the Trinity since it was she who bore The Son. A tradition going back to 14^th century France added onto the earlier belief that they also represented faith, wisdom and chivalry. With this came the association with Archangels and other Spiritual Entities.

COLORS	Even the colors can have special meaning in a "family crest" or coat of arms:
Gold (Or)	Generosity and elevation of the mind
Silver or White (Argent)	Peace and sincerity
Red (Gules)	Warrior or martyr; Military strength and magnanimity
Blue (Azure)	Truth and loyalty
Green (Vert)	Hope, joy, and loyalty in love
Black (Sable)	Constancy or grief
Purple (Purpure)	Royal majesty, sovereignty, and justice
Orange (Tawny or Tenne)	Worthy ambition
Maroon (Sanguine or Murray)	Patient in battle, and yet victorious