Re: HIST: Origin of Iris Symbolism

An excellent reference (if it can be found) is Tall Bearded Iris (Fleur-de-Lis) A Flower of Song,  Chapter III , pages 87 - 101. Copyright 1922 by Walter Stager
This is a delightful book full of basic information (for the period)  and lots of wonderful poetry wherein the Iris is mentioned either directly or obliquely.  To abstract just a small portion Stager indicates that in ancient times the fleur-de-Lis symbolized Eloquence, Fecundity, Power,. Success,   and Wisdom. He also goes on to expound on the many areas in religion, art, etc. where the Iris was related to the  Holy Trinity and to denote the "spotless purity of the Maid of Nazareth."

Dave Silverberg
Molalla, Oregon
John I Jones wrote:

From: John I Jones <jijones@ix.netcom.com>

I get some strange mail. How this person ever found my address is beyond me -
but it is sort of an interesting question.

******
H. Reed Lewis wrote:

>  A friend of mine has questioned the origin of the symbolism of the
> three petals of the iris. She has noted that the iris is used by some as
> a symbol for the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, while some regard
> the iris as having a petal for each trait: valor, wisdom, and purity.
>
>  Have you an idea where we can find reference to the origins of either
> lore, and of the relationship to the fleur-de-lis?
>
******

So, anyone have any thoughts?

John                     | "There be dragons here"
                         |  Annotation used by ancient cartographers
                         |  to indicate the edge of the known world.

USDA zone 8/9 (coastal, bay)
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Director, Region 14 of the AIS

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