Rare Antique 17th Century Flemish Tapestry 45666

Size: 11 ft 8 in x 13 ft 7 in (3.56 m x 4.14 m)
Style: Tapestry

Borrowing from the myths of ancient Greece and Rome, this Flemish tapestry features a fantastical scene with a crimson flower magically emerging from a hero’s body.

Romantic Antique 17th Century Flemish Tapestry, Country Of Origin: Belgium, Circa Date: 17th Century – This spectacular antique tapestry depicts a detailed mythological scene that recounts a classic story of a legendary hero who is transformed into an immortal crimson flower, an important symbol of rebirth found in many classical myths. Filled with Hellenistic influences and mythology from ancient cultures and civilizations, this elaborate Flemish tapestry features an exceptionally detailed scene with bridges, aqueducts and a fortified castle depicted in the distance along with robed ladies, exotic plants and a primitive oil lamp featured in the foreground. The opulent borders rival the splendid scene depicted in the field. The fantastical borders are adorned with an assortment of decorative birds, ornate bouquets and abundant fruit-filled chalices woven together with floral grotesques and ornate vine-scrolls. This splendid antique tapestry features an exotic array of mythical elements rendered in a stately selection of classic colors that emphasize the regal style of this enduring antique tapestry.

Tapestry signed / initialed by Jasper van der Borght. Jasper van der Borght, who died in 1742, is part of, what is considered to be, one of the most significant tapestry weaving dynasties in Brussels. He is recorded as having obtained his privileges in 1684.

The borders of this tapestry can also be found in two other (as far as we know), mythological tapestries. One of these tapestries, possibly from the same series, was woven by Albert Auwercx. Alebrt’s piece depicts the allegory of ‘Simplicitas’ and is part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Vienna (D. Heinz, Europäische Tapisseriekunst des 17. und 18. Jahrhunderts, Vienna, 1995, p. 39).

Depicting maidens surrounding a suit of armor with lily, the guard border depicts the Brussels town mark and signature a signature – I.V.D.B.

If you are un the hunt for a beautiful idyllic romantic scene tapestry, this 17th century Flemish tapestry would make a breathtaking addition to your home.

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