This is an Antique Tapestry that my father gave me 35 years ago that was given to him by a decorator. He (my father) owned a custom drapery shop in San Francisco for many years that he inherited from my grandfather.
I believe this is 16th century french origin. It was brought to a dealer maybe 25 years ago and I was told it was a “fragment” tapestry. She mentioned something about the bird and the animals but I can’t recall. It is quite rough to the touch and I believe it is wool. The backing I think linen, the bottom hem is coming up. It’s quite heavy. Measures approximately 70 1/2” long x 49 1/2” wide. It has some wear and tear but no holes or tears.
70 1/2” long x 49 1/2” wide
Inherited
Yes
Hi Karen,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
This is an Aubusson tapestry panel. Without seeing it in person it's hard to date specifically but it was probably made in either the late 17th or 18th Centuries (1650-1790).
Tapestry weaving in Aubusson is documented by the mid-1400s. Flemish weavers likely migrated to the region during the late Middle Ages, bringing advanced techniques. Early works often depicted religious subjects, heraldry, and medieval narratives.
In 1665 (mid 17th Century), under Jean-Baptiste Colbert (minister to Louis XIV), Aubusson was officially granted the title “Manufacture Royale.” This royal status elevated its prestige alongside famous workshops such as the Gobelins Manufactory. Popular subjects included pastoral scenes, mythological themes, and decorative verdure landscapes.
Production reached its peak in the 18th century, when Aubusson became famous for large decorative wall hangings used in aristocratic interiors. Designs often imitated paintings and included Boucher-style pastoral scenes inspired by artists like François Boucher.
Wool was the primary yard used and formed the weft (horizontal strands) while the warp (vertical strands) was usually linen. Occasionally, silk threads were used to add fine detail and highlights.
The market for tapestry panels has diminished for all but the finest examples and while this is a comparatively small panel, I think this could be one of the tapestries that collectors, dealers and possibly institutions might be interested in purchasing.
In the current market, a conservative auction estimate would be prudent and an auction house with a good reputation and track record with tapestries would likely put a pre-sale value of $7,000-10,000 on it.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
An antique Aubusson Verdure tapestry panel
17th-18th Century
Depicting a lush garden scene featuring squirrels on a tree branch and a bird by a stream, within a black (now faded) border and backed by linen.
70-1/2” tall by 49-1/2” wide
CONDITION: This tapestry panel appears to be in good condition
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$7,000-10,000*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia
