What an absolute thrill it has been to research and share the many symbols of Paris and France. We started with the fleur de lys, traveled through time to visit the Galois rooster, noting that Paris can never be sunk (Fluctuat Nec Mergitur). We've visited the Olympic games to learn all about the embodiment of France, Marianne, the Revolutionary Phrygian Cap and le Tricolore.
We've buzzed around the meaning of the Napoleonic bee. Architecturally, we've spent countless foot steps playing the flâneur / flâneuse. It's how P'Niche herself stumbled across the Angel de Turbigo, that large architectural relief - or was it a caryatid?
That's to say nothing of the neck stretching we've done to look up and see the countless grotesques and gargoyles.
And if you feel like someone is watching you as you stroll, fear not, it is likely just a friendly mascaron keeping watch over your path.
Today, let's take a P'Niche peek to learn a bit more about the Laurel Wreath and it's symbolism through Paris and France...
Simply stated, a laurel wreath is a garland - typically worn upon the head. Composed of connected branches of leaves of the Bay Laurel and fragrant broadleaf evergreen, it is a symbol of triumph.
These days, we still associate it with victory stating that someone "should not rest on their laurels" (meaning not to rely on past successes). Contrary wise, "to look to one's laurels" means to be mindful of not losing rank to opponents and competition.
That's a lot of symbolism - already!
Dating allllllllllll the way back to Greek mythology, we see that the Greek god Apollo (who is the patron of lyrical poetry, musical performances, and athletics) is often portrayed wearing a lush laurel wreath upon his brow. Before that, Apollo had mocked Eros (Cupid) for his archery as Apollo was *also the patron of bow and arrow. Eros then, rather annoyed, prepared two arrows - one gold, one lead. Shooting Apollo with the gold, he fell in love with Daphne (who, shot with the lead arrow, held on hatred for Apollo). Our Apollo chased Daphne until she fervently begged to be free of his advances and was thus changed into a laurel tree. Still full of love, Apollo vowed to honor Daphne, ensuring that the laurel tree would remain evergreen. Ah l'amour!
And you know who else was absolutely enamored of the tales of Apollo and Daphne? King Louis XIV!
As you recall from our Versailles series of posts, Louis strongly associated himself with Apollo (also the Greek god of the Sun - I mean was there anything he didn't do?!) Louis used this Apollo symbolism to craft his image of the "Sun King" - the central force of which all things revolved around.
Among many pieces of art in the palace, the Apollo fountain in the Versailles garden is a key representation of this theme.
We can also note that Laurel wreaths became the common reward of accomplished scholars and the like.
This bestowing of the evergreen garland continued the ancient tradition of crowning poets, writers, academics and intellectuals as a sign of their achievements.
As we enter the Napoleonic era, we definitely notice the prevalence of the laurel wreath here. Napoleon used this wreath to bolster his imperial rule. At his 1804 coronation, he wore a laurel wreath (in gold - as one does). This was to echo the Roman emperors and to legitimize his authority as a modern day Caesar, who likely also took this symbolic gesture from the archies of Greek mythology. The wreath went on to symbolize French military triumphs, victories, and glory.
These days, the laurel wreath is still seen in lots of various arts and motifs in France's gorgeous imagery.
From the Arc-de Triomphe to la Place de la Concorde, and le Louvre to the Palais Garnier, you'll not have to walk far to see a gorgeous depiction of a laurel wreath.
The Pantheon features laurel wreaths as part if its stunning neoclassical design, where they symbolize honor and remembrance.
You'll see them as you cross Paris' many bridges and even atop the Colonne de Juillet in Place de la Bastille. Paris is nearly (ok, mild exaggeration) as rich in laurel wreaths as she is in history!
As you know by now, Paris is a living, breathing treasure hunt! Let's pose a playful challenge, P'Nichers... - where do you peep for laurel wreaths in Paris? Where have you find your favorite ones? Sound off in the comments below et à bientôt!
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