16th-17th Century Flemish Verdure Tapestry

Details

Description

Tapestries were used in the Middle Ages as much for the protection they gave against cold winds, as for the … Read more Tapestries were used in the Middle Ages as much for the protection they gave against cold winds, as for the decoration, covering openings and acting as canopies around beds.

Production was centered around Paris until the Hundred Years War caused the

weavers to flee north to Flanders. The weavers extracted the dyes, mostly from

plants, in up to twelve colors, dyed the thread, and commenced weaving.

Working with English or Picardy wool, Italian silk, and silver and gold thread

from Cyprus, a skilled weaver took two months to complete just one square

foot ! In the early 1500’s combat and hunting scenes were popular. Hunting

scenes led to romanticized pastoral designs which reflected increasing Italian

influences.

In 1660, the lavish reign of Louis XIV, Les Gobelins factory was founded in Paris

employing over 800 artisans, The chief features of the Verdures were the large

flowing all-over patterns of dentate foliage in a low toned shade of green.

In the last half of the 17th century, landscapes were incorporated into

the design.

This centuries old piece shows typical wear and old repairs. Enlargeable photos on request. We were very pleased to make this purchase locally and have numerous documents of its recent history. See less