A Flemish Old Testament Biblical Tapestry, Oudenaarde mid 16th century

woven with scene from the Story of David, showing the crowned equestrian figure of the King of Israel, with his name woven into the hem of his robe, and central battle scene of further equestrian figures, woven within a four-sided exuberant border of various exotic flowers, foliage and fruit, within a later gilded frame

I. De Meuter, Tapisseries d'Audenarde du XVI au XVIII Siècle, Exhibition catalogue, 1999, pp.153-163, for examples of comparable early Oudenaarde Biblical tapestries in similar borders.

This is a striking and unusual tapestry, mounted within a frame (as visible in the photograph). Versatile size. Very striking and detailed border. Within the border and tapestry, evidence of original colours, such as pale peach hue to some of fruit, highlights of some of clothing and to the sun. Unusually hints of a light lime green still visible. Balanced composition and colour. In generally good condition. Some dirt specks to sky as visible in the detail photograph, but not detrimental to the overall stable appearance. Some warp threads visible in areas of the rockwork ground, between the horses. Some repairs to light areas. Some beautiful examples of early weaving technique, such as eccentric weave, hachures and areas of definition.
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