Pair of 132 Inch Antique Tapestry Borders From Flanders, Circa 1580

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A beautiful pair of tapestry fragments, hand-woven in Flanders (now Belgium), circa 1580. At roughly 132 inches (11 feet) long, … Read more A beautiful pair of tapestry fragments, hand-woven in Flanders (now Belgium), circa 1580. At roughly 132 inches (11 feet) long, the fragments were, originally, vertical borders to a very large and brightly colored tapestry. The colors have maintained their vibrancy over the last 400+ years, with deep blue, brown, green, and red accents over a gold and cream background.

Although the fragments do not have identical scenes, it is readily apparent that they originated from the same source. At the top of each fragment is a bearded warrior clad in golden armor with a flowing blue cape and green greaves. A shield rests on the ground, supported by the soldier’s left hand, while his right hand lifts a spear into the air. Towards the center of the textile is a pair of musicians, one strumming a lute, while the other plucks a lyre. At the bottom of each tapestry is a single female figure, well-dressed and sitting on a bench with one arm overhead. The remaining areas have been filled with fruit bouquets, architectural elements, and other figurative representations. A more recent navy blue border surrounds the scenes and the backs have been lined with a mauve colored linen.

Our hand-woven tapestry borders would make fantastic textile art for any wall in the house. At eleven feet tall and in very good condition, these antiques tapestries would work well in a grand staircase or used to frame another piece of art. They could also be used as table runners or as decorative window treatments. See less