RED BEE TIE - When looking for new emblems to replace the royal fleur-de-lis, Napoleon chose the bee, recalling that in the 17th century, more than three hundred bees had been found in the tomb of Childeric, father of Clovis II.

This tie is inspired by the bees adorning the harp of Empress Josephine.  The harp, signed by Cousineau, father and son, is still in the music room of the Château of Malmaison.  It is made of mahogany and richly decorated with gilded bronze, in particular bees.  Their social organization and obedience to their queen appealed to him. The bee can be found on clothes, draperies, carpets, and decorative furniture bronzes.