The Meaning Behind Wedding Fruits, Herbs, and Flowers
"During the middle Ages and the Renaissance, many aspects of daily life were imbued with meanings and superstitions; even the most devout Christian communities assigned meanings to flowers and plants. In fact, it was common practice for churches and cathedrals to select plant material for decoration, based on associations and implied meanings. Brides, too, were often tempted to choose decorations-and even their personal accessories-with consideration for the meaning of the materials, often above the desire for beauty alone."
"Almonds:
Known as the womb of the world, almonds were revered as fertility charms
and blessing for marriages. In Italy, almonds were distributed to foster
a fruitful union.
Apples: Apples were cut transversely by Gypsy couples at their marriage ceremonies, with the groom and the bride each eating half to reveal the sacred pentacle at he apple's core. Gypsies believed this was the only proper way to cut an apple, especially when it was to be shared between two lovers.
Three-Leaf clover: A symbol of the Trinity, the clover was a symbol of protection for the household, of a prosperous, joyous, long marriage, and of great joy and good fortune.
Pansy: Pansies symbolized memories, loving thoughts, and a yearning for a loved one. During the Renaissance, pansies were used in salads, deserts, and entrees, as well as for garnishes and table decorations. Ancient myth attributed the flower's exquisite coloring to cupid, who reportedly shot an arrow into a white flower, thus forever changing its color.
Rose: Representing love, sexual love, and secrecy, white roses represented innocence. White rose buds awaked love, peach roses desire, and pink roses a secret love."
Renaissance Magazine, Vol.6 #2, Issue #22
Poesy Rings: Tokens of Love
"Some
of the most charming rings of the Renaissance were poesy rings, or a ring
engraved with a line of verse or other expressions
of love. The word "poesy" means "verse," with the
connotations of
light or naive verse. Some poesy rings were used for wedding rings, others
for betrothal rings, or simply lovers' gifts. During the 14th and 15th
centuries, the verse was sometimes engraved on the outside of the band,
but towards the 16th century, it was almost invariably on the inside,
making it even more personal and intimate."
Fidelity (verses)
In Mir ist Treue (In me is faith)
In bone fay (In good faith)
My heart and I, until I die
Amour et constance (Love and constancy)
There is no other, and I am he, that loves no other, and thou art she
Renaissance Magazine, Vol.6 #2, Issue #22
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