A rare Oberlausitz (Saxony) damask cloth with a view of Görlitz, Groß Schönauer Manufactory circa 1780

woven lustre linen white warp and red wefts, figured with a central view of the city of Görlitz with the church of the Holy Sepulchre and further churches (after their prototypes in Jerusalem) based on a print from 1734 by Johann Daniel de Montalegre (1697-1768), the corners depicting various castles on hillocky outcrops, linked along the sides by relief motifs of horse drawn carriages, now mounted on cream silk within a modern glazed frame

In relation to the colour catalogue image the colours are more defined and crisper in appearance, and more attractive in reality. There is evidence of the pale blue selvedge to the top edge. Small repairs in areas and some wear at corners (especially the lower left corner). Very minor dark marks bottom left corner and in trees left of carriage on the lower edge. There are initials, which appear to be TM in the top left corner, and initials MGH in lower left corner. Presently mounted against cream silk, within a glazed, modern cream and golden frame. This is a particularly attractive and very decorative textile, with charming details to the design.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The oldest European damasks were made in Flanders, in Courtrai in around 1500, and the techniques used spread to Haarlem in the Netherlands, and to Saxony and Silesia in Germany. The linen weavers Guild in Oberlausitz, founded in the late 16^th century was one of the earliest and foremost damask Guild in Germany and is still famous today. It was a privilege of Kings and rulers to decorate their tables with precious tablecloths and napkins. These 'picture damasks' were richly adorned with decorations, events and/or coat-of-arms glorifying the noble person or family involved. The existence of the six horses drawn horse coach was reserved only for the highest ranking nobility, and other members of the aristocracy were not allowed this six horses privilege. The privilege was extended to the ruler of Görlitz at the time; probably the Elector of Saxony Friedrich August II von Sachsen (1696-1763) who ruled from 1733 onwards.