How were large antique tapestries originally displayed?

Historic interiors utilised these heavy textiles primarily as wall insulation in draughty stone castles and manor houses, hanging them on hooks or wooden battens to cover cold masonry. Over subsequent centuries, wealthy households repurposed them as decorative focal points in drawing rooms, sometimes cutting larger pieces down to fit specific wall panels or integrating them into firescreens and upholstery.

What is the difference between a verdure and a historical tapestry?

Verdure tapestries focus almost entirely on lush landscapes, woodland scenes, foliage and occasional animals, creating a moody, atmospheric backdrop for a room without telling a specific story. Historical or mythological tapestries depict specific narratives involving human figures, deities, or biblical events, requiring skilled figurative weaving and careful composition of facial expressions and gestures.

How should a textile wall hanging be cared for?

Preserving a historic textile requires mounting it securely to distribute its weight evenly across a breathable backing fabric, avoiding direct tension on fragile old fibres. Protecting the piece from direct sunlight prevents the fading of natural wool and silk dyes, whilst maintaining stable indoor humidity guards against mould and insect damage.

How do you distinguish Aubusson work from Flemish weaving?

Flemish pieces, particularly those from the seventeenth century, typically feature deep, dark greens and earthy tones within dense woodland settings, often framed by elaborate floral borders. Aubusson production generally favours lighter pastel palettes, graceful pastoral vignettes, and architectural or floral cartouches characteristic of later French decorative taste.