Working through loads of needlework and old woven Aubusson, Flemish, Verdure, Gobelin tapestry fragments and salvages which I once thought I'd make up into those lush fringed and down-filled decorator pillows we used to sell. I've collected these for decades while out buying antiques - just the best and most appealing panels, but it's time to disburse and let you make them up for your home or business.
This exquisite early 18th century Aubusson tapestry panel is large at 30" x 27" overall, and can be worked to a large round or square focus for a large and opulent decorator pillow top. It was, in its original state, a seat cover for a chair, and though typically chair backs are in better condition, this chair must have been in a Palace as decoration and never used. The weave and condition is quite remarkable. Very fine weave, these panels represent months and months of work, Masters working with many spools of dyed yarns, wool and silk, and adding one tiny weave action after another. Many tapestries are courser yarns and, while faster to work, do not have the delicate detail and compositions possible in thinner fine yarns. In photos, you can see how fine it is, and what it might look like made up as a square cut or round for your pillow. They're easy to make, or have an upholsterer do it for you. I see this one with a cream colored heavy silk or velvet a bit larger than the square or round, making a large pillow, complimenting lush fringe and a matching silk or velvet backing.
Overall condition of this panel is excellent for age and type. Strong enough for pillow. You will always want to cut a backing the size of the panel, and let that work to keep it from being pulled or stretched once made. Ask me if you need instruction. No odors. Full measurements noted on the photos. Get several, group together - opulently stunning effect for your own home!
