Old Brussels Tapestry - 65 x 107 cm (2'2" x 3'6") - Requires Rod Size 3

This 16th Century masterpiece is one of the series of tapestries known as The Hunts of the Emperor Maximilian which is currently at Le Louvre in Paris. This set was designed by Bernard Van Orley (1471-1541), a famous designer who was commissioned by such important personages at Lady Margaret of Austria and the Emperor Charles V. He created the original artwork or cartoons from which the tapestries were woven. The set consists of twelve tapestries, all devoted to hunting, which was highly popular during this period, it being common in the 16th Century to use a chronological series to elaborate a theme. The scene depicts the preparation for the Hunt. In the centre of the tapestry, a rider is seated on a rearing horse. He is wearing a slitted red velvet doublet, which was worn with small hip pads on a small skirt; the trousers are similar to medieval hose. His headgear, a tilted cap, is also typical of the fashion in the first half of the 16th century. In the background is a splendid view of the city of Brussels. To the left, on a hill, is the former Ducal Palace, and the towers of Saint-Jacob-op-de-Coudenberg and the Palace of Nassau can be distinguished. In the centre, the town roofs huddle together behind the city wall. Also noticeable are the steeple of the Church of St. Nicholas and the spire of the Town Hall. On the extreme right are the two west towers of Saint Gudule. It is not certain who commissioned the original tapestry. It may have been the emperor Charles V (1500-1558) or the Emperor Maximilain of Austria, but it was certainly woven in Brussels, probably by the master weaver Jan Gheteels, around 1530.

This tapestry is fully lined incorporating a sleeve along the top for hanging with a Hines hanging rod. Alternatively, this tapestry can be hung with a wooden batten which is a concealed method of hanging.

Hanging rods are purchased seperately - please click here to order