Rug Detail

Type: TAPESTRY
Origin: FLEMISH
Circa: 17 Century
Size/Feet & Inches: 6'6'' x 12'6''
Size/Meters: 1.98 x 3.81
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Item Number: 8211

 

A Flemish (possibly Antwerp) mythological tapestry from the “Story of Achilles” series, woven in the second half of the 17th century, envisioning a scene in which Achilles’ mother, Thetis, comes to Hephaestus, the Greek god of smiths and metal-work, for armor to protect Achilles and prevent his one weakness from being exposed in the Trojan War. In the scene, Hephaestus has finished the shield and headpiece, and is now hammering a gauntlet into shape, while his apprentices forge more iron in the kiln at right; set in a forested area with large trees, acanthus plants, grassy hills, and various flowers. Enclosed by a border of repeating reciprocal motifs. Wool with silk inlay.