A FLEMISH MYTHOLOGICAL TAPESTRY, PROBABLY ANTWERP FOR THE ENGLISH EXPORT MARKET, EARLY 18TH CENTURY SECOND QUARTER 18TH CENTURY |

possibly from The Story of Rinaldo and Armida, depicting Rinaldo and Armida (Tasso: 16:17-23); woven with a resting male and female figure in contemporary 18th century dress, before a table with a large mirror and accessories, set within the formal gardens of the château seen beyond the trees, with elaborate topiary and a fountain centred with a sculpture of Neptune and his chariot, and three small putti dressing up and playing at soldiers flanked by an exuberant rose bush and fruiting apple tree, woven within a red and gold narrow bead-and-reel 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 the horizontal splits and weakness in the sky, in the top left corner (as visible in the photograph), which would benefit from being consolidated (stabilised) and some in the light silk highlight areas of the collar of the chemise of the seated lady. Some of repair to silks is visible as appear as whiter areas, visible in the photograph in the clothing, fountain and highlights of flowers to left of group of putti. Some minor oxidisation to the browns, commensurate with age and colour of dye. Apart from the small areas of silk weakness, it is in overall good 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."