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 of castle walls and privacy “screens”. And since tapestries are portable, kings and noble men gathered their tapestry wall hangings during travels and took them with them. During the beginning of the Renaissance, tapestries were used during special occasions for decorative purposes. Flanders was the center of tapestry production in Europe. Hunting scenes, quest of the unicorns, religion, and chivalry were the common themes of medieval tapestries, as well as historical events that involved war and invasion and the struggle of royalties in a certain kingdoms.
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.
Currently, tapestries are used as decorations and are collected by art enthusiasts. The best tapestries, according to collectors, are those that narrate a story-which is common for Medieval tapestries, since the Bayeux Tapestry and The Hunt of the Unicorn, for example, present a narrative. Therefore, it is not surprising that even now many popular tapestry replicas in existence are those with medieval themes.
Medieval tapestries are among the most popular works of art, because of the vast period of time they cover and the theme it emcompases. Brave knights, noble kings and queens, castles, as well as mythical creatures provide great fun and educational entertainment in telling these fables.
The Medieval tapestry brings attention to the guest in the room simply by the look and style that attract the eye in an attractive way, and a conversation usually pops up easily with the many stories of might, magic and myths. Much creative energy is alive in the tales of the brave and courageous knights templar jousting outside the walls of the castle, trying to catch the eye of a fair maiden, while at the same time trying to win the match.
Camelot is romance and excitement filled the castle grounds with action and these days should not be forgotten in the stories for our children. Turn off your TV and have a conversation and story telling time while gazing upon one of these fine classics.
Viewed 84 times by 40 viewers
