A Flemish Mythological Tapestry, probably Antwerp for the English Export Market second quarter 18th century

possibly from The Story of Rinaldo and Armida, depicting The Abduction of Rinaldo (Tasso: 14:68); woven with a horse led chariot rising through the clouds, guided by a winged putti, and driven by a female, possibly Armida, with a sleeping male beside her, possibly Rinaldo, both in classical dress, with formal château, gardens and woodland below, woven within a red and gold narrow bead-and-real border, with walnut brown outer selvedge

 

This tapestry has been professionally restored and relined in the past. It has a linen lining, attached at edges with herringbone tape. There are no hoops at the top. It is recommended that Velcro should be attached for hanging purposes in the future. The borders are integral to the tapestry. There are some splits and repairs, and small areas or reweaving. See for example see the horizontal splits and weakness in the sky, in the top left corner (as visible in the photograph as dark crescent shapes). There are some areas of repair to silk highlights, for example to the mane and flank of one of horses and to the highlights of the cloak and dress of female figure driving the chariot. There is some minor oxidisation to the browns, commensurate with age and colour of dye. Minor horizontal split to top of one of windows in far right building and in the lower right corner of the border, both at areas of colour join, and are where the original stitches have fallen out. They can easily be repaired. There is a minor vertical line of light surface dirt, running down the left side between the column and the tree trunk, which can be removed. This tapestry is in overall good and stable condition. The scale of the composition and size of the tapestry make it appealing. Attractive border. There are some charming details and it has been finely woven. Evocative tapestry from specific period in European tapestry weaving.
"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."

See foonote for lot 1233