Tapestry, Royal Aubusson Manufactory, 18th Century - Homage To Psyche After Isaac Moillon - No. 1613

No. 1613 - Tapestry Royal Aubusson Manufactory 18th Century - Homage to Psyche after Isaac Moillon - 358 W x 240 H Homage to Psyche After a cartoon by Isaac Moillon Elegant 18th century Aubusson tapestry, representing the episode entitled “Homage to Psyche”, inspired by the famous Story of Psyche from Apuleius' Metamorphoses (2nd century). The original model is attributed to the painter Isaac Moillon, whose cartoons were widely used by Aubusson weavers in the 17th and 18th centuries. The scene illustrates the moment when Psyche, admired for her extraordinary beauty, receives almost divine homage. Seated on a throne beneath a rich canopy, she modestly accepts the offerings presented to her: a attendant brings her a censer, an old man presents her with a wreath of flowers, and a young man leads a sheep adorned with a garland, destined for sacrifice in her honor. This scene perfectly corresponds to the passage in Apuleius where the citizens “worshipped her as if she were the goddess Venus.” The tapestry displays a sumptuous palette characteristic of 18th-century Aubusson: deep reds for the drapery, rich blues providing harmony and contrast, warm golds and beiges, and green accents highlighting the vegetal decoration and garlands. The numerous vases, incense burners, and pieces of silverware in the foreground are typical of Isaac Moillon's style, enriching the composition with a luxurious decorative touch. The architectural background, with its columns and palace, lends the scene a theatrical depth. The weave is fine, the drapery is ample and expressive, and the composition remains perfectly legible. Although unsigned—which is very common in 18th-century Aubusson examples—the work fully corresponds to the known designs based on Moillon's cartoon. With its warm colors and refined mythological scene, this tapestry makes an ideal centerpiece for a living room, entryway, or textile art collection. It combines elegance, narrative, and the prestige of the Aubusson tradition.