Springtime - Lot 540

Springtime Flemish tapestry, Antwerp Late 17th century 2.84 x 4.18 m To the left of the composition, on a wide, calm river, a boat seems to have stopped. A couple is seated at the stern, probably waiting for a snack carried by a young girl on the bank. To the right of the composition is a fountain adorned with tritons, close to a residence whose tall peristyle columns can be seen. Tall trees separate the two scenes, which take place in a springtime setting. It could also be an allegory of water in the context of the four elements. Materials and condition Woven in wool and silk (warp in wool, weft in wool and silk), the tapestry retains its bright colors, but was cut into 4 panels at an earlier date, then re-striped, and the upper border is a border laid against the grain. Probably reduced in height. The whole remains highly decorative. Expert: Mme Nicole de Pazzis-Chevalier