The Story
Woven with dazzling images from history, mythology, and the natural world, and breathtaking in craftsmanship, tapestries were among the most valuable and high-status works of art available in Europe from the medieval period to the end of the 18th century. Over 600 historic examples hang in National Trust properties in England and Wales, the largest collection in the UK.
This beautifully illustrated study by tapestry expert Helen Wyld, in association with the National Trust, offers new insights into these works, from the complex themes embedded in their imagery, to long-forgotten practices of sacred significance and ritual use. The range of historical, mythological, and pastoral themes that recur across the centuries is explored, while the importance of the revival of tapestry from the late 19th century is considered in detail for the first time. Although focused on the National Trust’s collection, this book offers a fresh perspective on the history of tapestry across Europe.
Both the tapestry specialist and the keen art-history enthusiast can find a wealth of information here about woven wall hangings and furnishings, including methods of production, purchase and distribution, evolving techniques and technologies, the changing trends of subject matter across time, and how tapestries have been collected, used, and displayed in British country houses across the centuries.
- 256 pages
- Hardcover
Details & Craftsmanship
Every detail has been carefully considered to bring you the perfect product.
Description
Woven with dazzling images from history, mythology, and the natural world, and breathtaking in craftsmanship, tapestries were among the most valuable and high-status works of art available in Europe from the medieval period to the end of the 18th century. Over 600 historic examples hang in National Trust properties in England and Wales, the largest collection in the UK.
This beautifully illustrated study by tapestry expert Helen Wyld, in association with the National Trust, offers new insights into these works, from the complex themes embedded in their imagery, to long-forgotten practices of sacred significance and ritual use. The range of historical, mythological, and pastoral themes that recur across the centuries is explored, while the importance of the revival of tapestry from the late 19th century is considered in detail for the first time. Although focused on the National Trust’s collection, this book offers a fresh perspective on the history of tapestry across Europe.
Both the tapestry specialist and the keen art-history enthusiast can find a wealth of information here about woven wall hangings and furnishings, including methods of production, purchase and distribution, evolving techniques and technologies, the changing trends of subject matter across time, and how tapestries have been collected, used, and displayed in British country houses across the centuries.
- 256 pages
- Hardcover
