- 23
A Brussels Allegorical Tapestry from the workshop of Albert Auwercx early 18th century
Description
- wool
- height 9 ft. 8 in., width 11 ft. 5 1/2 in.
- 295 cm, 349 cm
Provenance
Condition
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
At the end of the 17th century, the last great generation of Brussels weavers turned to designs employing more playful forms, moving away from severe Baroque historical and mythological subjects and towards a lighter RĂ©gence style. Narrative series became more relaxed, sometimes comprising a loose compilation of associated subjects, which could be chosen according to a customers wishes. The present tapestry seems to belong to a group of The Triumphs of the Gods, showing Ceres as the earth mother appearing on a bank of clouds amidst a scene of agricultural abundance. It was perhaps designed by Jan van Orley and Augustin Coppens, painters who supplied many such cartoons to the late Brussels workshops.
Note that an almost identical version of this design was sold at Christie's London, November 6, 2008, lot 557, there mistakenly identified as the one sold at Sotheby's New York in 1995, which is the present lot. For the other examples of the series see G. Delmarcel, Flemish Tapestry, Tielt, 1999, pp. 305-331.