This tapestry is a fine example of a classical Verdure Tapestry, such as those woven in Flanders in the 17th Century. This particular piece is attributed to the weaving workshops at Grammont in Flanders, and was probably woven around 1550. Many Verdure (or Greenery) Tapestries were woven throughout the 16th to 18th Centuries, with designs based on plant forms reflecting the interest in botanical themes during this period, in such places as in Flanders as well as Brussels, Beauvais and Aubusson, important weaving centres patronised by the aristocracy.

A new style of tapestries called Verdures a grandes feuilles (greeneries with large leaves) emerged from this region of Flanders in the 16th Century. This new style featured a liberal interpretation of acanthus leaves and aristolochia leaves, often with birds or animals and fruit and floral decoration.

The original tapestry may be seen at the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, Austria.

• Tapestry Type      Silk Screen
• Made in                 France
• Sizes                       144 x 186 cm,       193 x 257 cm