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Fleur-de-lis translated from French means “flower of the lily.” The fleur-de-lis symbol has appeared in the artwork of many cultures over centuries, and is still widely used today. Many think that the fleur-de-lis is a stylized version of the iris. Its three petals cinched at the bottom end resemble the shape of a pressed iris bloom.
The fleur-de-lis is most known for appearing on the coat of arms of French kings. The emblem has been seen on the ends of royal scepters and staffs, and signet rings. Other European rulers have also used the fleur-de-lis on their royal flags and coats of arms. It is no wonder then, that some say it represents perfection, light, and life. The fleur-de-lis is nevertheless an elegant symbol and can add a touch of refinement to a living room when used as a decorating accent. The following are some ideas for decorating with the fleur-de-lis.
Wallpaper: If you are decorating your living room in a medieval gothic style reminiscent of stone castles and heraldic designs, or French or European styles known for elegant, vintage furnishings, fleur-de-lis wallpaper is a fitting addition to your walls. Look for wallpaper in a dark red, blue, or green background with gold fleur-de-lis patterns. Alternatively, purchase a fleur-de-lis stencil and paint an elegant border along the top of your living room walls.
Tiles: Ceramic tiles that are painted in lovely fleur-de-lis designs can be used in various ways in any living room. Those in bolder colors can be placed on the coffee table as coasters, or installed around the fireplace to add brightness and an inviting feel to the room. You can also set them in the floor around the perimeter of the room. Think Mediterranean or Spanish style.
Throw Pillows: Plain throw pillows on the sofa can be dressed up by imprinting the fleur-de-lis on the fabric. Use a screen printing technique that you can pick up at a craft store or online tutorial. Gold fabric paint can be used for the fleur-de-lis, and adding a fancy fringe or braid trim to the pillow completes the look.
Finials and Frames: Curtain rod finials shaped in fleurs-de-lis are popular accents for injecting extra flair to the living room décor. Fleur-de-lis finials go especially well with tasseled curtains made of velvet or damask. Continue the theme in metal fleur-de-lis accents on fireplace screens and picture frames around the room. Metal fireplace screens topped with fleur-de-lis designs imitate the elegant gates surrounding a royal palace or garden. Pewter or wrought iron picture frames are ideal for framing pictures from your trip to Europe or prints of European architecture.
Wall art: Wall grilles and wall plaques crafted from wrought iron often feature the fleur-de-lis, and make a beautiful statement when hung on a bare wall space in the living room. You may also find fleurs-de-lis in various sizes, made from wood, polyurethane, metal, or ceramic. Display a single oversized fleur-de-lis on the wall for a striking look, or arrange a few smaller ones together in an interesting display.
Senior staff writer for Metal-Wall-Art.com, Alyssa Davis, offers design advice on decorating with modern metal art and tree wall decor.
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