"the Swing," 274x208cm, A Large Wool Tapestry, Likely From Aubusson, 18th Century

An important 18th-century wool tapestry, likely from Aubusson, depicting *L'Escarpolette* or *balaçoire*, one of the subjects from the famous *Amusements champêtres* series, based on a cartoon by Jean-Baptiste Huet.
This elegant composition depicts a young woman swinging in a lush green landscape, surrounded by two suitors. The tapestry is framed by a border imitating a picture frame adorned with bouquets of flowers.

A renowned painter during the reign of Louis XVI, Jean-Baptiste Huet (1745–1811) was one of the leading designers of cartoons for the royal tapestry workshops in Beauvais and later in Aubusson. His talent for depicting pastoral scenes full of freshness and lightness contributed greatly to the revival of French tapestry in the late 18th century.

The *Amusements champêtres* series celebrates the elegant pastimes of the aristocracy and the upper middle class, which idealize nature and rural life. Swing riding, fishing, strolls, music, games, and scenes of courtship make up this cycle, which enjoyed immense success.

Good overall condition, signs of wear and tear, previous repairs and restorations, a few missing sections

Height 274 cm
Width 208 cm
7.5 kg