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The design for this kit is based on a detail
from a fifteenth century illuminated manuscript in the style of
the Limbourg brothers, which depicts Christine de Pisan offering
her works to Isabel of Bavaria, Queen of France. The original is
housed in the British Museum, London, England.
There is a divergence of opinion on the
origin of the fleur de lys motif. According to French legend Clovis,
King of the Franks, being trapped between the Gothic army and the
Rhine, noticed the water iris growing out into the river, signifying
that it was safe to ford the river at this point. He crossed in
safety with his army, and because of this incident is thought to
have adopted the water iris in the form of the fleur de lys as his
emblem. The fleur de lys motif is, however, most commonly associated
with the Royal Arms of France and European heraldry in general.
The first definite use of this motif as a French heraldic symbol
dates to the twelfth century, although there are many earlier examples
of its employment, including decorating the rim of Robert II's crown,
and as the finial of Charlemagne's sceptre.
The tapestry design is worked on 10hpi
canvas and measures 16in x 16in (40cm x 40cm) suitable for a pillow
or cushion.
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