Verdure Tapestry, Flemish Workshop, 17th Century

- Fine "Verdure" tapestry woven in a Flemish workshop (Brussels or Antwerp) in the 17th century.

- This wool and silk tapestry, typical of the Verdure genre, offers us a window onto a verdant landscape where nature and the presence of humankind coexist, signified by architectural elements in the background. Positioning the observer at the edge of a wood, this viewpoint allows for the composition of a landscape of great variety and depth; a foreground of tall trees through which a perspective enhanced by mountainous reliefs unfolds. Thanks to the meticulous work of the weavers, the sensation of space and depth intended by the painter of the original is faithfully conveyed to the viewer. In three juxtaposed planes, from darkest to lightest, the weavers have successfully transcribed a feeling of infinity. Furthermore, the vegetation is presented with great vibrancy, as evidenced in particular by the perceptible movement of the foliage in the foreground. Infinitely varied, greenery, like "woven winter gardens," remained a constant in the production of weaving workshops between the 17th and 18th centuries. While the depiction of verdant nature was their main theme, their differences lay notably in the quality of the design, the fineness of the weave, and their borders. The tapestry we are observing, with its exceptionally fine weave, features a highly decorative original side border with Baroque accents. It displays motifs of plants and flowers arranged in a cascading pattern, decorating the shaft of a column whose capital is visible. The preserved colors offer picturesque shades of blue and green. The deep greens and blues contrast with the numerous uses of yellow and light silks in the weave, thus creating a luminous whole. The weave is very fine (9 threads per cm). Fully lined tapestry, Velcro fastening system. Restored and cleaned by Bracquenié (Bolduc on the lining).

- Good condition, some wear to note (see photo).

- Dimensions - height: 208 cm, width: 354 cm