A Brussels allegorical tapestry from the workshop of Albert Auwercx early 18th century

probably depicting Ceres from a series of 'The Triumph of the Gods', with a Brussels town mark and weaver's mark AVWERCX on the lower selvage.

Lined. Good colors of the whole palette. Restorations throughout, particularly in light-colored silks. Repaired fold about 3 ft. 2 in. from left edge. Side borders rewoven. Good quality.
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

At the end of the 17th century, the last great generation of Brussels weavers turned to designs employing more playful forms, moving away from severe Baroque historical and mythological subjects and towards a lighter Régence style.  Narrative series became more relaxed, sometimes comprising a loose compilation of associated subjects, which could be chosen according to a customers wishes.  The present tapestry seems to belong to a group of The Triumphs of the Gods, showing Ceres as the earth mother appearing on a bank of clouds amidst a scene of agricultural abundance.  It was perhaps designed by Jan van Orley and Augustin Coppens, painters who supplied many such cartoons to the late Brussels workshops.

A slightly reduced but almost identical version of this design formerly in the collection of the Colorado Springs Fine Arts Center was sold in these rooms October 1, 2010, lot 23.  For other examples of the series see G. Delmarcel, Flemish Tapestry, Tielt, 1999, pp. 305-331.