Early 18th Century Brabant Brussels Tapestry Fragment With Swag and Rams Heads

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Hand-woven by a workshop in the early 1700’s, this tapestry fragment features a lush fruit and floral display with swag … Read more Hand-woven by a workshop in the early 1700’s, this tapestry fragment features a lush fruit and floral display with swag and rams’ heads. The rams’ heads are located in the upper corners, with the thick swags suspended through their horns. There is an abundance of fruit, including pears, a pomegranate, a gourd, and apples interspersed throughout yellow, orange, and white flowers with verdant leaves.

At the bottom center of the tapestry, just beneath the arching garland, are the initials “B B” separated by a shield. This is the production mark of tapestries produced in Brussels, the capital of the Duchy of Brabant. The area has been home to production houses since at least the 15th century, becoming the preeminent area for producing tapestries in 1477.

Tapestries by their very nature were produced in very large sizes, usually to cover walls in castles and keep warmth during the cold winter months. The tapestry of which this fragment originated, did not survive the centuries. Fortunately, it was likely one of the most decorative and symmetrical sections (probably a border piece). The fact that it retains the BB marking, attests to its location on the original tapestry (usually located along borders or in corners). Today, it can be enjoyed in nearly any size room (tapestry size 28 1/2 x 77 1/4 inches). See less