Tapestry From The Brussels Manufactory, 18th Century - No. 1724

Wool and silk tapestry — Brussels Manufactory, 18th century

An elegant tapestry depicting a female figure of allegorical or mythological character, shown in a half-length portrait and turned in a three-quarter view. The figure, with a delicately rendered face, wears a high, richly crafted and ornate hairstyle, while a full drape in cream and gold tones, accented by a dark sash and a large central jewel, envelops her shoulders.

The figure stands out against a beige, patinated background, enlivened on the left by a prominent dark drapery that accentuates the contrast and depth of the composition. The color palette, now subtly muted by the passage of time, combines shades of ochre, brown, cream, red, and blue.

This work attests to the craftsmanship of the 18th-century Brussels workshops, which were renowned at the time for their historical, mythological, and allegorical tapestries executed in wool and silk. It is set in a rich carved and gilded wooden frame decorated with scrollwork, foliage, and rocaille motifs, emphasizing its character as a true decorative painting.

Brussels, 18th century.