Lot 323
  • 323

A Flemish Old Testament Biblical Tapestry, probably Antwerp, from the Story of Jezebel and Ahab late 17th century

Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • wool
  • Approximately: 246cm. high, 429cm. wide; 8ft. 1in., 14ft. 1in.
set in an architectural palace setting, with buildings beyond the colonnade, and the scene of her demise as the outcome of her scheming on behalf of her husband against defenders of Yahveh, woven with side borders incorporating flowers, masks and clambering putti and standing golden figure of the `Mannekin Pis' (legendary figure, with bronze fountain designed in 1618/1619), the top border with swag of bound laurel leaves tied with red ribbon bows and centred by blue cabochon within a cartouche; lacking lower border 

Condition

Colours in reality are balanced in strength overall. More definition and more attractive in reality. Light areas including the background with more definition. Tapestry is lined with linen backing, and with Velcro attached along the top for hanging. There are small repairs and later reweaving in areas. Hand repairs with thicker wools in different colours to areas along the top edge, visible as orange coloured areas. Similar repairs to shoulders of standing foreground figure on the left. Small patch within the top border swag, right of the central cabochon, which is within the area of green foliage. There is an area of repair to a vertical hole underneath and running through the tray being held by the boy in the left corner, which has been inset with needlework patch in browns to blend in with surrounding area. There is a patch of 17th century Aubusson floral tapestry, of bold design and colour and thicker wool than surrounding tapestry, which is inset within the grouping of trophies on the table on the far right side. There is some oxidisation to the dark browns, for example to the inner borders, and browns to costumes of figure front left foreground and figure of young girl in right foreground. Balanced colour and composition. Versatile size as wide rather than high. This is a vibrant and decorative tapestry.
"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."