Tapestry. France, 20th century.

Tapestry. France, 20th century.
"Birds and flowers".
Measurements: 188 x 128 cm.
French petit point tapestry with the representation of a peacock in its center, surrounded by birds, vegetal motifs and borders in red, green and ochre tones as dominant colors. Traditionally, especially in the 17th century, Flemish tapestries were true museum pieces, with intricate detail in pattern and color, hosting pictorial compositions with pastoral or religious themes, often on a monumental scale. The success of decorative tapestry can be partially explained by its portability. Tapestries were also placed on castle walls for insulation during the winter, as well as for decorative display. The iconography of most Western tapestries can be traced back to written sources, the Bible and Ovid's Metamorphoses being two popular choices. In addition to religious and mythological imagery, hunting scenes are the subject of many tapestries produced for interior decoration.