A Louis XIV Classical landscape tapestry, Aubusson late 17th century

woven within a four-sided border incorporating martial trophies and sun bursts, against a brown ground

Measurements 463cm wide across the top, 474cm. across the bottom, 284cm high left side, 284cm. high right side; This tapestry is quite dark in overall appearance. The tapestry is not lined. It has hessian binding in strips across the back. It is recommended that it is cleaned and lined professionally, with Velcro added across the top edge, for hanging purposes in the future. There is original colour across the tapestry, which is faded but present and dirty on the front (colour visible on reverse). There are some old moth repairs, in areas. Other areas of old repair for example to top right corner of border, and to some areas within shield in foreground. Old silks and old repairs to some of silk highlights. Some oxidisation to the browns, commensurate with dye and age. Some areas of repair in these areas, and some are a lighter brown colour. This is a decorative early tapestry, with some lovely details to design and in weaving technique. Charming border incorporating sun motif.
"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."

Possibly depicting the Continence of Scipio, from The Story of Scipio or scene from The Story of Titus and Vespasian. For a comparable unusual and distinctive border on an Aubusson weaving from the Classical subject of The Story of Alexander, depicting the Crossing of the Granicus, see Sotheby's, 12th December 1986, lot 202. A known group of five tapestries of this Alexander series in the same border is recorded in a private collection.