18th-Century European Forest and Chateâu Tapestry

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On offer is a classic Verdure tapestry, popular in the 17th and 18th centuries for its lush nature scenes. "Verdure" … Read more On offer is a classic Verdure tapestry, popular in the 17th and 18th centuries for its lush nature scenes. "Verdure" comes from the French word for greenery, focusing on forest and garden themes. Made of wool and silk in Aubusson workshops or possibly what was then the Southern Netherlands, (today’s Belgium). Brussels held the "tapestry weaving center" title for centuries only to be overtaken by French royal manufactories established under King Louis XIV.
Verdure tapestries typically feature a large château or castle—like this one, complete with fortifications and a moat—symbolizing nobility, and are framed by stylized trees. Birds and small animals animate the foreground. During the 1600s and 1700s, these textile works were a luxury item for the European elite and prosperous classes, desirable for bringing "nature" into grand domestic interiors. And, in addition to serving as luxury decor, tapestries were exceptionally practical. They provided insulation when hung atop cold stone walls and could be easily transported between estates owned by those whose most pressing challenge was which property to ride off to next. This piece is ready to hang in your château on the included hanging rod with acorn finials.
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