This 17th century silk and wool tapestry from Flanders has an abundance of fascinating motifs and details. The richly forested scene shows a clearing with a small pond, surrounded by a plethora of vegetation. Framing all of this is a remarkable floral and foliate border with 8 elegant cartouches. It is rare to see such a thick and rich border. The cartouches in the 4 corners depict doves with rays of light on a blue sky background encircled with collars. This represents the Order of the Knights of the Holy Spirit. The four other cartouches at the midpoints feature medallions of smaller wooded scenes.

The tapestry was produced in the municipality of Audenarde, which is located in the Flemish region of Belgium.  This area was world-renown for tapestry production from the end of the 14th century through the 18th century.  Audenarde tapestries were exported all over Europe during this time frame.  During the height of production in the 1500’s, more than half of the population of Audenarde worked in the tapestry industry.

CONDITION: Good condition with with some small separations. These can always be stitched. Backing and velcro strip added for optimal hanging (museum standard). Additional photos available upon request.