Friday, November 28, 2008

The Beauty of Medieval Tapestries

By Stacy Mar

Since it was such a long period that spanned over 700 years, the medieval era is also referred to as the Middle Ages, a time marked by mythical and historical events. It was during the late medieval period when the Renaissance, or the age of cultural advancement rose up in Europe. The use of the decorative tapestry in wall decor was also very common during the Middle Ages. During this time, many tapestries with emblems and coat of arms were hung behind the throne. They were used as symbols or signs of authority and prestige. Besides using it for decor these works of art also had practical uses.

Tapestries during the Middle Ages were used for providing insulation, privacy, and covering in castles. And since tapestries are portable, kings and noble men took their tapestry pieces during travels. During the beginning of the Renaissance, tapestries were used during special occasions for decorative purposes. Flanders then was the center of tapestry production in Europe. Unicorns, religion, and chivalry are the common themes of medieval tapestries, as well as historical events that involved war and invasion and the struggle of royalties in a certain kingdom.

The Valois tapestries are one of the popular tapestries that depicted middle ages. It is composed of eight tapestries showing images of the festivities at the Court of France. Said to be owned by Catherine di' Medici, King Henry II of France's queen consort, it was drawn by renowned illustrator Antoine Caron, although there was a second artist who worked on the tapestries (some believed the second artist was Lucas de Heere, a Flemish poet and painter). Other famous medieval tapestries include the Bayeux Tapestry and The Hunt of the Unicorn.

William Morris and Edward Burne-Jones were the major figures in the resurrection of medieval tapestry. One of their famous creations is the tapestry depicting the search for the Holy Grail. While created during the 19th century, several years after the middle ages, their works have perfectly illustrated the refined beauty that is the craft of making tapestry. Although mass-produced, their tapestries rival the beauty of the original pieces. Mass production also means the tapestry wall hangings were no longer as exceptionally expensive and became more affordable for the general public.

Tapestries used as decorations are collected by art enthusiasts. The favorites, according to collectors, are those that narrate a story and that is common for the medieval tapestries. Notables are certainly The Bayeux Tapestry and The Hunt of the Unicorn. It is not surprising that many popular tapestry replicas in existence are those with medieval themes.

Medieval tapestries are among the most popular, because of the vast period of time it covers and the themes they've produced. From brave knights, kings and queens and the castles to keep them safe, not to mention the men and women as well as mythical creatures they provide educational entertainment in the telling of these fables.

The Medieval Art Tapestry wall hangings are works-of-art and can bring a common room to life. Not only does the style and colors attract the eye in an attractive way, but the a conversation usually follows. Who can resist the telling of might, magic and myth of these days long gone.

Romance and excitement filled the days of Camelot and should not be forgotten in the stories to our children. Turn off the TV and have a conversation and story telling time while gazing upon one of these fine classics in wall decor. The world is our oyster. Enjoy. - 14915

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