Saturday, 13 September 2014

New Orleans Flor De Lis History And Information

By Jody Leach


There are many different symbols in the universe. Some have ties to the occult, others to groups, organizations and religions. For the most part, the original New Orleans Flor de lis or Fleur de lys is an emblem from a coat of arms. Most often used in Mardi Gras and other city celebrations, it is a symbol seen often at parades and other events in the Crescent City.

A variety of colors and versions of the symbol have been used in New Orleans over the years. One of the biggest events in which most of these amazing symbols are present are the many Mardi Gras parades. There are also other events like the French Quarter Festival and Jazz Fest in which many of these symbols can be seen on high flying flags and other items.

Often recognized a universal code or symbol, it actually did derive from a time before it was known in the United States. The earliest usage certainly appears to be related to royalty. While the original design rumored to have been used to anoint kings was from the Netherlands, it appears to have experienced some transition since that time.

For the most part, French Canadians came to the area from the Netherlands. It is here where the symbol began. Although, the original design was attributed to the irises which still line the river Luts. To help distinguish the original version from others, look for the white petals which bend down to the beginning of the blooming flowers.

A poem, written by Guillaume de Nangis describes the symbol as golden flowers which grow from a ground of azure. The piece also describes the placement of the symbol on a shield to recognize it as a coat of arms. During, and since that time, it has been known as a symbol of royalty, most often provided to kings who subscribed to Christian based religious sects.

The truest origins of the symbol is most likely related to royalty and the French Monarchs. It is believed lilies were used when crowning King Clovis I. After which, the Monarchy adopted the symbol as a royal coat of arms. The symbol, in this case, representing loyalty, purity and faith.

Whether brought down by an angel, having immigrated from the time of Frankish kings or otherwise, the emblem has seen a great deal of use. None of the reported uses have included any aspect related to Voodoo or black magic. Its use in mardi gras parades and festivals in New Orleans, a city for known for Voodoo, is most likely the reason for this misconception.

During the 14th century, French writers asserted that the time of the Monarch could be traced back to the time a divine gift of royal arms was provided to a King. As with other symbols, there are a number of other legends and myths associated with the colors and symbols used in each Flor de lis. When it comes to its uses in the City of New Orleans, it is one that holds a number of different meaning whether resident or tourist.




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