Tapestry collections throughout the world have been celebrated by many. The vivid and dramatic colours and diverse interpretations have captivated audiences and have enabled artist’s masterpieces to be transformed and reproduced through tapestry. Through the ages tapestries have been commissioned as a way of expressing art form. This may have been through dramatic religious belief, or in a representation of tradition and lifestyle using a more abstract symbolic approach. Museums now house many of the original tapestry collections which continue to exude a timeless appeal.
The Attraction of Medieval Tapestries
Some of the most well known and enigmatic tapestries are those woven during the medieval era. These works of art have stood the test of time and continue to appeal through their intricate design and detail.
Unicorns were incorporated into the design of many medieval tapestries, symbolizing good over evil and religious experience. One of the most famous sixteenth century collections can be seen in New York City at the Cloisters Museum. La Chasse de la Licorne, originally woven in France, contains a multifaceted array of symbolism and is believed to represent healing, particularly the horn of the unicorn. One theory behind the meaning of the series is that they were originally commissioned to celebrate a marriage and the Licorne Captive is representative of a lady capturing her betrothed.
The Lady and the Unicorn series shows unicorns representing the human senses such as touch, smell, and hearing and can be seen in the Cluny Museum, Paris. Many of the tapestries incorporating unicorns into their designs were based on religious beliefs, and a way of expressing emotions. Unicorns continue to appeal today to a wide audience.
A Medieval Raconteur- The Bayeux Tapestry
One of the most famous and well known tapestries of all time is in fact an embroidery. The Bayeux Tapestry was woven to celebrate the victory at the Battle of Hastings by William the Conqueror and is actually split into sections focusing on the story.
The precise origins of the tapestry remain a mystery and are thought to have been commissioned by Bishop Odo. Although there is a reference to the existence of the work in 1476 it has endured poor storage and was used to cover a cart during the French Revolution. Remarkably it has survived and has an enduring appeal.
Today this magnificent artefact is displayed in the Musee de la Tapisserie in the French town of Bayeux.
William Morris- Inspired Designs
William Morris tapestries signified the emergence of modern tapestry art, particularly those that could be adapted for middle class Victorian homes. Unique designs with striking and dramatic colours saw Morris become one of the most popular artists of his time. One example of his work entitled Ehret Die Frauen is displayed in the Whitworth Art Gallery, Manchester and was inspired by a verse by Schiller extolling feminine virtue. Other examples of Morris designs include the Tree of Life, Flora, Pomona, and the Woodpecker.
A Continual Inspiration
Textiles have been used throughout history for a variety of purposes and in differing art media. Tapestry is a form of textile wall art that continues to enhance our surroundings and appeal to many cultures.
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