Sunday, February 1, 2009

Medieval Wall Art Hangings & Tapestries

By Stacy Mar

In a span of over 700 years, the medieval era is also referred to as the Middle Ages, a time marked by various historical events. It was during the late medieval times when the Renaissance, or the age of cultural advancement, began in Europe. The use of tapestry wall hangings is also very common during the Middle Ages. In these times, various tapestries usually the ones with emblems or coat of arms are hung behind a the throne. Wall art was also used as a symbol or sign of authority and a sign of prestige. Besides decoration and display, tapestries also had practical uses.

Medieval tapestries were used for insulation, privacy, and decoration in castles. And since the tapestry is portable, the wealthy took their woven fabrics with them during their travels. During the beginning of the Renaissance they used for special occasions as decorative means. Flanders was at the center of tapestry production in Europe.

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 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 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.

Our children love and enjoy these romantic and exciting times of Camelot and should not be forgotten in the telling of them to our children. Turn off the TV. Have a conversation and story telling time, while gazing upon one of these Medieval Tapestries that are fine classics in wall decor. - 16752

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