Tapestry of Oudenaarde, 16th century

In Europe, from the 15th century onwards, there were important tapestry centres such as Ghent, Bruges and Oudenaarde.

This house from Flanders, performs pieces of great virtuosity and imposes a new trend that will irrigate the rest of Europe.
The sources of inspiration for these masterlists are mainly found in the Bible, mythological accounts, poets of Latin antiquity.

In the centre of our tapestry, like the walk, a young woman in an architectural garden. In the centre, a fountain feeds a lush flora while it waters a paradise of animals.

Two clues suggest a work with mythological resonances.
In the background, in the upper part and in a kind of celestial vault, two peacocks pull a chariot where a traveller comes to life.
There will undoubtedly be a representation of the goddess Hera, wife of Zeus, king of Olympus.
Returning to the centre of the tapestry, an eagle will be noticed with its eyes firmly fixed on the lady. The eagle, symbol of Zeus.

In the border, the presence of several sphinxes, fabulous monsters of ancient arts, further increases the relevance of a mythical decorative tonality.

The last element that this time refers to a Germanic legend: the winged hare in a beautiful first-rate greenery.

The whole work is in perfect condition, woven wool and silk. The colours have kept all their freshness.
The borders and dimensions are original, we will note a monogram RA, with a flower, in the lower right border