17th Century Aubusson Verdure Bleue Tapestry Depicting the Grape Harvest

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In 1665, Louis XIV gave workshops in Aubusson (France) the royal charter, making them responsible for producing tapestries for the … Read more In 1665, Louis XIV gave workshops in Aubusson (France) the royal charter, making them responsible for producing tapestries for the King and nobility. A beautiful example of such an Aubusson tapestry is our verdure bleue wall hanging that depicts four grape harvesters in the clearing of a heavily canopied forest. Over 300 years later, the silk and wool tapestry still possesses radiant colors, most noticeably the blue and green of the tree leaves and the surrounding border.

Two of the workers are unloading a grape hotte into the large vats positioned by a small stream. Notice the clarity of the river, as two ducks swim in pristine blue waters, surrounded by towering trees and flowering bushes. The other two grape harvesters are sitting beside the vats, enjoying a brief snack. All four citizens are clad in gold and brown clothing and their exposed skin is realistically hued with cream and light pink. In the background, a cliffside village beneath a light blue sky can be seen behind breaks in the tree line. A few birds perch from the upper reaches of the trees, as well as two small figures emerging from the bushes to the left of our foursome. The entire scene is surrounded by a thin gold border, which in turn is encircled by an impressive floral margent dotted by tied ribbons. An off-white linen backing has been added more recently, which will help protect the tapestry, allowing our Grape Harvest tapestry from Aubusson to be hung in any room of the house. See less