A Pre-Gobelins historical tapestry depicting a scene from the story of Tancred and Clorinda, probably from the workshop of Raphael de la Planche late 17th century

See Fenaille, Etat General Des Tapisseries de la Manufacture des Gobelins, vol. I, Paris 1923, facing page to 362, for another example of the same subject as the present lot and for a discussion of other weavings of Tancred and Clorinda series by De la Planche.

Old professional repairs and reweaving in areas. Stable overall condition. Balanced colour, with some fading in areas. Balanced composition. Some minor joins in border. Weft threads visible in some areas, particularly to the areas of original brown weave, visible as the white marks, which does not detract from the overall appearance overall. Areas of light silks, with some wear, commensurate with age, for example see hair and faces of figures and the horse. Some old moth repairs, visible now as terracotta coloured spot areas, for example see rockwork far left. Some discolouration to sky in areas. See dirt across top left edge in sky. Reweaving of blue sky top right corner. Beautiful detailing and fine weaving technique. Bold colours, literary and charming subject matter and versatile size.
"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."

This scene is derived from Tasso's epic poem called Jerusalem Delivered describing the first crusade and featuring Tancred, a Christian knight, as one of the heroes. This particular scene is one of the series of Tancred and Clorinda