Bees are found in casual and formal French decor.
French country decor combines traditional French elements with the utilitarian farmhouse lifestyle to create a home that is elegant yet casual. A popular motif found in French country decor is the bee.
History
According to the website Napoleon, the bee is the oldest emblem of the sovereigns of France and was used by Napoleon to link his dynasty to the origins of the nation. He used the bee as his personal emblem. It symbolizes immortality and resurrection and is popular in French decor.
Significance
Beyond historical roots, bees are a fixture in the French countryside. They can be found buzzing over fields and wildflowers.
Images
Look for accessories, like wall plaques and vases, that feature bee images. Use a rubber stamp and some paint to put a bee on a cabinet door, throw pillow or a tablecloth.
Colors
Incorporate the gold and black of the bee in fixtures, stained glass and wall art for a less obvious interpretation. These colors complement the traditional French country palette of creamy neutrals mixed with more vivid shades of lavender, blue, green and gold.
Locations
Flowers are a hallmark of French country style and where there are flowers, there are bees. Place your bee embellishments near your greenery, be it near herbs drying from the rafters or flowers in a vase.
