Stunning Canvas Art Tuesday, Jul 7 2009

Now I know we are a tapestry blog and that people expect to read about tapestries when they come here but I had to tell you about an online store I came across that is selling the most beautiful contemporary canvas art that I have ever come across.  The canvases are limited production and hand painted and they come in a variety of styles and sizes.

Art styles include abstract art, modern art, contemporary art, african art and Asian art plus many more.  

My personal favourites are the the African canvases, they really are stunning.  Check them out at Canvas ArtYou won’t be disappointed!

Available from www.ArtsMyPassion.com

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Fabulous Canvas Art for Your Home Decor Tuesday, Apr 28 2009

Available from www.artsmypassion.com

If you like minimalist home decor then this might be the site for you. Arts My Passion is an online store that specializes in Canvas Wall Art Each of their paintings are hand-painted and come gallery wrapped and ready to hang. Among the styles of Art available are abstract canvas art, modern canvas art, contemporary canvas art, Asian and African Canvas art. They offer secure online ordering, excellent customer service and Free shipping to the USA and Canada.

The knack to choosing Canvas Art for Minimalist Décor is too, either pick one large print, or Oil Painting. Alternatively, opt for one of the multiple piece Canvas Art Sets, which are available. For many people, this can offer the easiest solution. Oversized Canvas Sets, and four to six piece sets might be perfect for larger rooms. Smaller, two and three piece Canvas Art Sets are especially good if you have limited space. If sets do not appeal to you, selecting two or three individual, smaller sized, Modern Art prints is another option. Ideally, they should be relative to each other, and the same style, and even more preferably, produced by the same Artist. Modern Art encompasses a wide range of styles, including Impressionism, Cubism, Abstract Art, Abstract Expressionism and Minimalism

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Medieval Wall Hangings as Home Décor Saturday, Jan 17 2009

Available from www.thetapestryhouse.com

During the Medieval era Art flourished and came to embrace many elements, especially Christianity. Medieval art emerged from a blend of German and Roman art, fused together during the upheavals of the Middle Ages. Its distinct, Gothic look owes much to its origins, and quickly developed along divergent lines setting it apart from other art movements before or since.

One of the most arresting elements of this period was the development of tapestry wall art. Medieval wall hangings, a number of which still exist, were the epitome of expensive, tasteful art during the Middle Ages and continue to delight modern audiences. Because of this even today many modern home décor enthusiasts are looking toward Medieval wall hangings as an answer to their decorating dilemmas.

There are a number of persistent motifs seen in work from the Middle Ages, including sense and perception, mythical beasts, the glory of God and the celebration of great families.

Of particular importance was the emergence of religious subject matter; using art as a means to communicate multifaceted concepts such as love and redemption. Art rose to the challenge and the sheer breadth of the art produced is one of the main reasons it remains an iconic and fundamental pillar of western art.

Now many are looking again at tapestry wall hangings from the Medieval era as an exciting and unusual addition to their home décor options. With many possibilities they are being considered by more and more people looking for something a little different.

A great many famous works from the Middle Ages have been reproduced as modern wall tapestries. Some of the best examples from history are now available and are truly unique pieces of wall art.

A good example is Travailler les laines, or working of the wool, depicting a scene in the Loire Valley during the early 16th century. In medieval times the wool season was an important time of year, typically July after the harvest in June. The scene depicts Thomas Bohier (d. 1524), adviser and minister to Charles VIII supervising peasants.

Although an important and wealthy nobleman like Bohier would not have been involved directly with the supervision of manual labor, it shows the tendency for wall hangings to be used as a means of communication during Medieval times, and work like this is a useful source of information to historians and enthusiasts.

Because of its distinct colors and clear Medieval style it has become a favorite amongst art lovers and the original, dating from 1520, can be found in the Louvre in Paris.

One of the most famous examples from the Middle Ages are the Lady and the Unicorn. They were undiscovered until 1844 and badly damaged by damp, they were bought by The Cluny Museum in Paris in 1853 and restored. They are now displayed in their own room at the museum.

The designer and weavers of the series are unknown but experts estimate they were woven in the late 15th century. It is thought that the series were commissioned by the Le Viste family, of which the head was Jean Le Viste, a nobleman in the court of King Charles VII, as the coat of arms on the standards, including the lion and the unicorn, represented the family.

The decorative floral background of each tapestry is the same. The Mille Fleurs pattern, meaning the thousand flowers is a style commonplace in Medieval wall hangings.

The beautifully woven tapestries use bold colors and intricate detailing. Each wall hanging features the same subjects, a lady and the mythical unicorn. A lion also appears in each scene. However the theme for each is slightly different.

The six tapestries are said to represent the five senses Taste, hearing, sight, smell and touch with the sixth often interpreted as “love”.

One of the most popular is Les Vendanges. Woven in the late 15th century it was designed to celebrate the annual wine harvest and it depicts the peasants gathering the grapes for use in wine making. The design includes the distinctive Mille Fleurs decoration typical of Medieval wall hangings.

During the Middle Ages art was commissioned by the wealthy and tended to reflect dramatic themes and religious symbolism. More rarely work was commissioned to depict everyday scenes, like Les Vendanges, offering a rare glimpse into life during Medieval times.

Like all Medieval wall hangings these works of art demonstrate the artistry and craftsmanship that was in evidence during this time. The vivid colors and striking motifs challenge our ideas about the Middle Ages as a time of plague and morbidity.

Because wall hangings are textile based the weave often helps lift the original work making for a quite dramatic piece of décor. The best quality wall tapestries do an impressive job of not only reproducing the original detail, but add considerably to their charm and people can be quite taken aback at their distinctive nature.

Nowadays many people are looking to Medieval wall hangings to add some charm and history to their home decor. With a vast array of options to choose from, including some of the Middle Ages best surviving works, there’s never been a better time to appreciate these unique works of art.

Copyright © The Tapestry House, all rights reserved.

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Tapestries in American Décor: A Short History Sunday, Jan 11 2009

Available from www.thetapestryhouse.com

A tapestry exudes warmth, colour and an interesting design perspective in the home Tapestries have been used in American homes for centuries and were the height of fashion in the 17th and 18th century. They suit any period home and remain a popular choice today.

Early Colonial Use
Tapestries were brought to America by European colonists who aspired to be as refined as the well heeled in their mother countries. America saw a number of fashions imported from Europe at this time to ensure the new immigrants kept up with changes in vogue. Tapestries were used as wall hangings or bed hangings and European made work was often listed among the most valued item in a householder’s inventory. At this time the best bed in the house was often decorated lavishly with tapestry art and tapestries were found more often in a parlour than a bedroom. Parlours and best rooms in the 18th and 19th century saw rich fabrics and tapestry used in the décor. Furniture covering was a more likely feature at this time than wall hangings. Indeed the industrialisation of the modern city resulted in concern that dust and smoke would destroy these lavish works of art.

Growing popularity with wealthy Americans
At the end of the 19th century America began to see unprecedented wealth from the various industrial developments that spread across the country. Families such as the Astors, Vanderbilts and others who perceived themselves as the aristocracy of America found new wealth from the industrial growth of America and built European styled palaces and homes in vogue with their newly found status. These grand homes gave rise to resurgence in popularity for tapestries. The focal point of George Washington Vanderbilt’s Biltmore were two massive tapestries of Vulcan and Venus. The imitation of the splendour and extravagance of European stately homes and palaces was a classical way in which the newly rich of America chose to display their wealth.

The Arts and Crafts Revival
Tapestry appeared in the less luxurious homes, as furniture decoration rather than lavish wall hangings. The Arts and Crafts movement led by William Morris enabled modern design to be easily reproduced in a classical way. providing colour and texture to a decorative scheme. This trend was seen both in America and Europe, however was somewhat short lived.

A second revival of tapestry art occurred in the mid 20th century when large walls found themselves decorated once again with tapestry hangings. As people moved from one area to another the flexibility a tapestry gave enabled it to be rolled up and re-homed in the new house. It became an alternative to framed paintings in a changing world and made art more accessible to the growing population.

Poplar choices for any home
Tapestries have enabled their owners to be very creative with how they are displayed in a home, be it wall hanging, furniture cover or a unique touch to a corner. They remain a focal point in the modern home and are a versatile feature in interior design.

Copyright © The Tapestry House, all rights reserved.

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The Beauty of Fine Art Tapestries Friday, Nov 28 2008

Available from www.TheTapestryHouse.com

For centuries we have enjoyed fine art for its creativity, its beauty and its celebration of human endeavor. It has occupied a privileged place in our scheme of things and even now, in the age of mass production and easy availability, it still occupies a special place in our homes. Conversely textiles have long been a mainstay of the human experience. From basic woven cloth to more elaborate decorative fabrics, they have often been seen as, and used as, an everyday commodity.

Nowadays many people are looking for home décor choices that bring together both of these elements: the versatility of textiles and the appeal of fine art. Wall tapestries are an elegant fusion of these two important strands of the visual arts; a perfect marriage of good taste and tactile luxury. Nowhere is this more evident than in the beauty of fine art tapestries which combine the appeal of elaborate textile design with the refinement of fine art.

Although art based tapestry wall hangings have been with us for centuries recent advances in technology, and a growing appreciation of textiles as something more than just practical objects, have helped fine art textile design to flourish and become an important part of our home décor armory.

Much of this renaissance in wall tapestries stems from their ability to capture the drama and excitement normally only found in canvas based art. With their texture, depth and warmth more and more of us are beginning to reappraise tapestry wall art and are looking toward it to enhance our homes.

An alternative to traditional fine art
In particular people are looking at tapestry wall hangings as a direct alternative to traditional fine art. An impressive range of art prints are available nowadays, some of the most popular being traditional paintings from the old masters; everything from famous classic works to 19th century portraits. More recently stretched canvas prints and reproductions have become popular and affordable, again offering a vast array of options.

Although prints enjoy a unique position in home décor these popular paintings are increasingly available as wall tapestries. The woven nature of wall hangings adds depth and texture to these already impressive works and makes a distinct alternative to framed art. A growing number of works from almost all established art movements; Medieval and Gothic, Renaissance, Neo-Classical, Baroque and Pre-Raphaelite art, amongst many others, are now available as tapestries.

Examples include great Renaissance masterpieces, like Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, or Michelangelo’s Creation of Adam. Both of these, like many works of fine art, transfer well to tapestries and capture the drama and excitement of the originals. In particular great romantic works are very popular. François Boucher’s pastoral art from the 17th century was amongst the first style to be transferred from canvas to textiles. These have been persistently popular for three centuries and, due to the success of tapestries capturing the subtlety of fine art, continue to impress audiences now with their depth, color and seemingly effortless skill.

Floral and still life art tapestries
Another popular form of traditional art found in tapestries is floral art. Long since a staple in painting movements, floral still life’s have always enjoyed a strong following amongst art lovers. The combination of the range of styles available in floral art combined with the texture of woven textiles is proving tempting to many art lovers. Many well-known still life artists from history, such as Corneille van Spaendonck and Severin Roesen from the 19th century, have had their original works successfully make the jump from traditional mediums to tapestry wall hangings.

Echoing this is the demand for still life art tapestries. The range of still life art, encompassing a broad palette of subjects, colors and textures makes them an ideal basis for art based wall tapestries. With their ability to capture vivid hues and warm tones, wall tapestries often do an impressive job of capturing the essence of this ever popular branch of fine art.

Artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gaugin are famous examples of still life artists whose work has made the transition from canvas to tapestries. Their distinctive work blends well with the weft of textiles, adding an extra dimension to the already vivid compositions. Less well known are contemporary artists like Malenda Trick and Stewart Sherwood who continue to embrace still life’s. Like classic paintings these have successfully made the transition to wall tapestries. Their vibrant and detailed imagery works well with the textile finish and, when executed by skilled craftsmen, helps bring the art alive.

Even from the earliest examples of tapestry art we see examples of the richness of detail available when woven by master craftsmen. The Medieval motif known as mille fleurs (thousand flowers) was popular because of the richness and vibrancy it added to wall tapestries, hence the reason it formed the backdrop of so many tapestry designs woven during the Middle Ages. It is this ability to capture fine detail that makes wall tapestries an ideal medium for fine art and it is no wonder it has been so successful in capturing the majesty of still life art.

Scenery & Landscape art tapestries
Like still life’s landscape art is a mainstay of almost all art movements. From Leonardo da Vinci’s detailed background work in his many portraits, to Constable’s evocative paintings, landscapes have proved a popular and lasting element of all art movements.

Many famous landscapes have been successfully reproduced as tapestry wall hangings. One of the earliest examples were Verdure tapestries which depicted lush, green landscapes. These successfully used the richness found in quality tapestry weaving to create a vitality and energy that did an impressive job of capturing nature in all its glory.

Another popular example stems from the Flemish renaissance during the 17th century. Famous painters like Bruegel did much to move the focus away from traditional European art to capturing real life; in particular landscapes. His striking and famous works often contained a broad palette of features including expansive countryside backdrops, and a myriad of detail that made it stand alone when compared to art of its day. Famous works like Hunters in the Snow are now available as very high quality wall tapestries and demonstrate that textiles, woven by skilled craftsmen, can capture even the most demanding of subject matter.

Another example of the virtuosity of landscape art tapestries stems from the popularity of Oriental style art. These were popular from the late 17th century onwards, a result of Europeans traveling east to China and Japan. They brought back tales of exotic lands and strange cultures that captivated audiences back home. With this interest came a flush of art know as Orientale that gave full flight to artistic license.

Many of the works faithfully reproduced aspects of eastern culture, in particular the unusual plants and wildlife. The art itself is very colorful and distinctive, and has been enjoyed as wall tapestries for centuries. Even today they continue to delight art lovers with their depiction of flora and fauna, and their impressive use of color and hue to add drama. Again the richness of the weave and the distinctive texture of wall tapestries adds much to what is already a vivid and striking branch of art.

Because of the popularity of landscape art there are many wall tapestries available that are based on reproductions of its most famous works. The success of woven fabrics in capturing the detail found in many of the best landscape art is often what catches people unawares. This unusual mix of a familiar branch of art rendered using a rare and luxurious medium allows landscape tapestries to compliment a range of interior designs making them an adaptable basis for home accents and accessories.

A lasting beauty
Wall tapestries, because of their unique one-off manufacturing process, are distinctive works of art – each one subtly different from all others. Other options, such as fine art prints and even canvas based reproductions, can have a mass produced quality that is hard to shake. Conversely art lovers can often be surprised at how striking a tapestry wall hanging is compared to other options.

The variety and elegance of traditional fine art is enhanced by the texture of the woven fabric, often achieving a depth not found in traditional prints. The detail now available from modern weaving methods can be impressive and often does justice to some of fine arts’ finest works.

Despite their long history tapestry wall hangings, which for so long occupied a unique place in the homes of the select few, are once again asserting their importance in today’s modern home décor choices. With an ever increasing range of options available the opportunity to own one of these distinctive works of art has never been better.

Copyright © The Tapestry House, all rights reserved.

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The Allure of Historical Wall Tapestries Tuesday, Nov 18 2008

Available from www.thetapestryhouse.com

Since time began people have used textiles for a wide range of purposes. From blankets for warmth, to elaborate woven fabrics for commerce, they have been at the very center of human life.
The need for textiles, combined with our desire to enhance the world around us, has given rise to a huge range of fabric based art, everything from basic colored cloth to complex woven textiles. Tapestries and wall hangings have long been one of the most accomplished forms of this art, having a history dating back millennia, and artists from almost all cultures have contributed some form of textile wall art.

Recently tapestries and wall hangings have enjoyed a rise in interest, with many people looking beyond traditional options for wall decor. The tactile nature of tapestries, combined with their rich history, has made them once again a choice for the well-informed home improver.

Traditional tapestry designs
Although there is an increasing amount of contemporary art available as tapestry wall hangings, it is the traditional designs from the past that are the most popular. Since tapestries have enjoyed a long history these can include anything from Gothic wall hangings, to French Baroque and Rococo works from the 17th and 18th centuries, to more recent 19th century William Morris and Pre-Raphaelite art.

The main appeal of these impressive works is their connection with history. The range of designs and themes is vast and include subject matter as diverse as the rise and fall of nations, the importance of art movements at different times, and the prominence of individual artists and groups. Most appealing is that each has its own claim to history. This combination of artistic excellence and history writ large is proving irresistible to many art lovers who yearn for more depth in their home decor choices.

There are many famous tapestries from the past. In particular the Middle Ages took wall tapestries from the domain of practical decor into the realms of art. Boasting famous works like the Bayeux Tapestry and the Lady and the Unicorn series, the Medieval era is seen by many as the golden age of tapestry art. More importantly for the first time we see tapestry wall hangings widely appreciated as works of art, rather than just practical pieces of home furnishing.

A growing popularity
Reproductions of these famous works are proving very popular with modern audiences. Given the historical importance of these works of art some of the current productions available are fastidious copies of the originals. The very best of these capture the drama and virtuosity of historical art, perfectly blending it with modern weaving methods. The end result is often very faithful to the original artists’ vision, with all the durability and appeal of modern fabrics.

From the vivid colors of Medieval tapestries, to the exoticism of Eastern schools of weaving, traditional tapestry designs often surprise modern art lovers with their attention to detail, their ability to capture emotion and their exploration of timeless themes such as love and romance.

An enduring allure
Because of this these centuries-old designs are enjoying a renewed prominence and are once again making their way into the homes of taste conscious art lovers. Every tapestry, because of the individuality of the weaving process, is a unique work of art unlike any other. In a world driven by mass production art and home decor enthusiasts are drawn to the uniqueness of wall tapestries as an antidote to the monotony of many other décor options.

Now, despite their ancient origins, many people are again looking towards historical tapestries and wall hangings as an answer to their modern home decor aspirations. With an ever growing range of options for shoppers the choice has never been better.

Copyright © The Tapestry House, all rights reserved.

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Tapestries: The life and Art of William Morris Saturday, Nov 15 2008

Available from www.thetapestryhouse.com

William Morris is one of Britain’s most prolific textile designers with a talent in every area he managed to influence. A multi skilled designer with a appreciation of beautiful things, he developed a design portfolio that encompasses many genres in the applied arts.

Morris’ Early years
In 1834 William Morris was born in Walthamstow, Essex. He attended Exeter College, Oxford where he met Edward Burne-Jones, who later became his business partner and lifelong friend. Initial plans to study for Holy Orders were abandoned in favour of becoming and architect. With such a creative mind Morris soon tired of this and joined his friend Burne-Jones to paint. Art became Morris’s forte and he developed talent in printing, poetry and learning how to weave. His tapestry work is undoubtedly his finest creation. Acanthus and Vine was Morris’s first tapestry, completed in 1879.

The Arts and Crafts Movement
The 1860’s saw a transformation of the applied arts when Morris, Marshall, Faulkner and Company was formed. This brought together some of the leading artists of the day as William Morris, Peter Paul Marshall, and Charles Faulkner began the Arts and Crafts Movement together with Edward Burne-Jones and Ford Maddox Brown. The tapestries and wall hangings created by Morris remain influential in the design world today. Morris said, ”Whatever you have in your room, think first of the walls, for they are that which makes your house and home.” The company eventually became known as Morris & Co in 1874.

William Morris Tapestries
Burne-Jones and Morris worked in partnership on some of the greatest tapestries to emerge from the Arts and Crafts Movement. Morris wove the tapestry that Burne-Jones designed. One of the most popular tapestries is the Quest for the Holy Grail, now on display in the Birmingham Museum and is a set of six tapestries depicting this famous legend. The Adoration of the Magi is perhaps Morris’s most well known religious tapestry, and was also the most complex. Depicting the nativity scene, the foreground is scattered with British flowers and Morris declared that, “nothing better of the kind has ever been done, old or new.”

The Woodpecker is one of the few designed by Morris himself and depicts the bird sitting in the branches of a fruit tree surrounded by an ornate background of leaves, which came to typify the Morris design. An embroidered inscription of Morris’s own poetry was included in the tapestry design. The use of colour and intricate detail can be seen in The Tree of Life, a well known Morris design, which also serves to display his expertise in patterns.

A timeless appeal
Morris once said,” Have nothing in your houses that you do know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.” One of the most prolific artists of the nineteenth century, his works are seen today in modern homes and is a testament to the fact that true beauty is timeless.

Copyright © The Tapestry House, all rights reserved.

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Striking Wall Décor: Religious Wall Tapestries Wednesday, Nov 5 2008

Available from www.thetapestryhouse.com

Religious art has long been at the very center of the art world. From the Middle Ages and through the Renaissance many artists poured their energies into the emerging role of Christianity which swept through Europe to become the dominant force in culture , society and philosophical thinking.

From this came some of the most exceptional art ever produced. The Italian Renaissance alone produced some of the most distinct and well-known art in history. It is no surprise that with the advent of modern reproduction techniques that religious art, for so long the preserve of the wealthy, has made its way into our homes.

In particular with the rise of modern textile manufacturing methods that tapestry wall hangings are beginning to see a huge focus on some of Christianity’s most famous works.

Religious Art
During the Medieval era, with its preoccupation of death and eternal life, we see the emergence of distinct works of art glorifying God. Followed by the Renaissance religious art soon took on a life of its own. Christian Europe poured almost all it artistic energy into the production of art that glorified the power of God, and helped create some of the greatest of all masterpieces.

Because of the vivid imagery and the almost exclusively religious nature of art at this time much of it has survived into the modern era. In addition because it is so distinctive many art lovers are drawn to religious art as an option for their home décor needs. From early Medieval religious art influenced by Byzantine craftsmen, to more modern-looking Renaissance and post-Renaissance art, many have come to appreciate the impact religious art can have in even the most modern of homes.

Renaissance Art Tapestries
A great many famous works of religious art have been reproduced as wall tapestries. Some of the best examples from history are now available, and are a real treasure trove of information as well as a unique piece of wall art.

One of the most popular religious tapestries is Michelangelo’s Creation of Adam from the ceiling of the Sistine chapel. As one of the most sublime works of any age it is instantly recognizable and as impressive now as ever.

Michelangelo’s legendary attention to detail and supreme ability with color is encompassed in this one small detail from what possibly ranks as the most famous piece of art ever created. Even 500 years after it was completed it is a staggering testament to the inspiration religious devotion created for artists through the ages.

Giving its distinct imagery it works well as a woven textile adding much to the original and can look dramatic and expressive, adding an unusual touch to any decorating scheme. With it’s beautifully rendered lines and subtle use of color it can enliven almost any environment, and is a striking way for history lovers to at a touch of class to any environment.

Post-Renaissance Wall Tapestries
Although the Renaissance is the most common example of religious art, the trend continued after its demise. A particularly striking example is El Greco’s famous Trinity.

A reproduction of the original mannerist painting it was originally painted in 1577 for the altarpiece of Santo Domingo el Antiguo church in Toledo, Spain. It achieved great fame in its day, and clearly shows the artists’ influences, in particular the impact of Italian Renaissance art on his work.

Reminiscent of Michelangelo’s Pieta it depicts Christ after the crucifixion, supported by the Holy Father and attended to by the Holy Spirit and numerous angels. Its vivid colors and impressive palette demonstrate the artists’ evident skill in composition, and the intensity of his vision. The original can be found in the Museo del Prado in Madrid, Spain.

The Trinity wall tapestry, being based on such a famously vibrant and striking work of religious art, transfers well to woven fabric. The dynamism seen in the original blends well with the weave, especially so with very high quality reproductions. Added to the unique qualities that are a feature of luxury wall tapestries the end result is a magnificent testament to El Greco’s original art, as well as a truly striking piece of wall decor.

As with all quality wall tapestries it’s subtlety and vitality transfer well to textiles, adding an almost antique quality to and already distinctive work of art.

Religious Tapestries as Wall Décor
Because wall tapestries are textile based the weave often helps lift the original work making for an expressive piece of wall décor. The best quality tapestries do an impressive job of not only reproducing the original detail, but add considerably to their charm and people can be quite taken aback at their distinctive nature.

Nowadays many people are looking to religious tapestries to add some charm and history to their home decor. With a vast array of options to choose from, including Medieval and Renaissance art, there’s never been a better time to appreciate these distinctive works.

Copyright © The Tapestry House, all rights reserved.

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Floral Art Tapestries as Modern Wall Décor Thursday, Oct 23 2008

Available at www.thetapestryhouse.com

If you are interested in adding an elegant touch to your home décor without losing your contemporary edge, you might want to consider decorating your walls with floral tapestries. These classic works of art use various plants and flower arrangements to convey a timeless serenity, while at the same time allowing one the flexibility of incorporating modern accents into a design theme.

The right still life tapestry can blend seamlessly with a room’s furniture and accessories (such as lamps and other lighting fixtures), while at the same time providing the perfect visual enhancement to offset contemporary surroundings. Floral tapestries have a way of establishing a sense of balance in a room, perhaps because they remind us of an inherent need to be grounded in the natural and organic.

Why Are Flowers Contemporary?
At first glance, it’s easy to understand why some floral tapestries may almost seem unsuitable for the modern home. After all, many elaborate original tapestries were woven in centuries past and now reside in historical European museums. Cultures all over the world have embraced floral still life art for centuries in different ways, for different reasons.

But one could also argue that it is precisely this diversity of appreciation that has lent itself well to contemporary applications. Keep in mind that modern interior design tends to focus on creating space and light. If you choose a floral tapestry with bright and natural colors, the openness of the contemporary theme is highlighted.

Another way to understand the appeal of floral still life in contemporary culture is to understand the complex philosophical and sociological issues the modern world faces. For many, a floral tapestry can offer a metaphorical glimpse into the human condition. Flowers are often viewed as representing an inescapable frailty, while simultaneously providing a sense of hope and optimism.

A Wide Assortment of Choices
Incorporating floral still life tapestries into your contemporary design theme does not mean that you have to sacrifice individuality when developing a modern feel. In fact, quite the opposite is true.

The open, airy nature of many modern and post-modern themes means that the tapestry you choose can reflect whatever you want it to reflect. There are so many combinations and choices available on the market that you should have no problem finding a piece that not only encompasses your personality and individual style, but also retains the spacious, open characteristics of contemporary design.

The Ivy Column
Consider a portrait such as the Ivy Column tapestry, which combines all the significant elements of contemporary design into a vivid display of ambient surrealism. Sunlight shines on a country house with a stunning array of colorful foliage surrounding it.

The inclusion of the pond in this portrait only further solidifies the sense that all forms of nature are represented in the piece. In essence, this piece has it all – that is, something for everyone.

Complexity in Openness
A range of complex personalities can be accurately represented in pieces such as the Ivory Mural tapestry, the Floral Decadence tapestry, and the classic Directoire tapestries. These remarkable works of art manage to capture the bright, cheerful colors associated with many contemporary designs, yet the intricate floral patterns and organic settings are likely to inspire and challenge the thinking person’s awareness for years to come.

Beauty in Simplicity
On the other hand, some people believe less is more – an equally valid assertion in modern design preferences. The Prestige (Dawn) tapestry and the Prestige (Midday) tapestry are both perfect examples of how the focus on a simple tree can speak volumes.

These tapestry portraits allow the imagination to run wild in the fantasy world depicted by the artists who developed them. The natural landscapes depicted in these pieces exist nowhere in the actual world, yet it is not at all difficult to image that they could. The viewer is drawn in to the simplicity of a single tree, yet the artist manages to capture other faint still life images of birds and plant life in the background. The approach is both subtle and effective.

Combining the Simple and the Complex
Perhaps among the most effective representations in floral tapestries are those which draw upon all of the elements we have discussed. For example, the Classical Rose tapestry is conceptually straightforward – in essence, a vase of roses. Upon deeper examination, however, it becomes clear that the artist’s use of light and choice of background provide a depth and clarity to the piece that touches the soul on a much more substantive level.

Modern Décor and Floral Tapestries
The elegant yet uncomplicated concept of a flower arrangement has been the motif of many still life artists throughout time. These works have been faithfully reproduced in the tapestry world, and they represent an incredible assortment of selections one can employ when developing a contemporary design theme. Floral still life tapestries can contribute to the bright and spacious nature of modern design, while at the same time providing viewers with an intriguing experience that requires an intensity of concentration to fully comprehend and appreciate.

Copyright © The Tapestry House, all rights reserved.

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Antique Tapestry Maps as Home Décor Tuesday, Oct 21 2008

A beautiful world map tapestry (available at www.thetapestryhouse.com)

From ancient times we have tried to make sense of the world around us and it is this drive to understand and document our environment has given rise to one of arts’ least appreciated gems – antique maps and cartography.

Although today we are used to maps as dry, functional things that we occasionally reach for when lost, it was only a few centuries ago that they commanded the attention and wonder normally reserved for great works of art.

Cartography as Art

The earliest maps date back to ancient Greece and the works of the Greek astronomer Ptolemy from the 2nd century are still referred to now as elegant examples of the rise of early cartography.

Map making went into decline during the Medieval era as leading thinkers concentrated more on religion and spiritual matters than the details of geography. However with the rise of European navies in the 16th and 17th centuries all this changed with cartography attracting not only the best geographers and astronomers, but also attracting the attention of many skilled artists.

During this time cartography took on new importance with many commercially produced maps being considered valuable works of art as well as useful tools for maritime travellers.

Given that maps in the past were very valuable objects, it is no surprise that they were treated in much the same way as art, as objects to be cherished by their owners. In addition many cartographers were accomplished draftsmen due to the nature of their profession, and often embellished their work with decorative details such as sea creatures and mythical gods.

Now many are looking again at the artistry of antique maps as an exciting and unusual addition to their home décor options. With many possibilities, from original antiques to tapestries, they are being appreciated by more and more people looking for something a little different.

Original Maps

Many antique maps are available to buy from specialist retailers online. These cover almost every conceivable area of cartography, from grand world maps from the 17th century, to 19th century maps of US states.

Originals from centuries ago are quite rare, although given their nature of use on long sea voyages they were built for endurance. Because of their rarity they can often command prices in the tens of thousands of dollars range. Even modest maps, physically small and dating from only 150 years ago, can cost thousands of dollars.

However much they cost there is no doubt that, properly mounted and framed, these impressive testaments to history can make a very dramatic statement.

Prints and Posters

A great many famous world maps have been reproduced as prints and posters. Some of the best examples from history are now available, and are a real treasure trove of information as well as a unique piece of wall art.

One of the most popular is Typus Orbis Terrarum by Abraham Ortelius (1527 – 1598). It covers the known world of the 16th century and is a testament not only to the craftsmanship of cartographers but it demonstrates an impressive level of knowledge for its day. It’s dark, coffee-colored hue emphasizes its age, an effect further enhanced by the wealth of detail on the map itself.

Maps like this often work well as framed artwork. Even posters, properly framed, can look dramatic and expressive, adding an unusual touch to any decorating scheme. With their often warm, earthy tones and subtle detail they can enliven almost any environment, and are a striking way for history lovers to decorate.

Wall Tapestries

Although prints enjoy a unique position in home décor popular world maps are increasingly available as tapestry wall hangings. The woven nature of tapestry art adds depth and texture to these already impressive works and makes a distinct alternative to framed art.

A growing number of antique maps are now available. A particularly impressive example is one of the most famous maps ever produced in the 17th century; namely Jan Baptist Vrient’s Obis Terrae Compendiosa, meaning “A Brief Representation of the World”.

It contains an astonishing amount of detail and like earlier maps that it was based on it is decorated with numerous details including symbolic figures at each corner, exotic animals and fauna from the far-off shores it represents and landscape vignettes. As with all quality wall tapestries it’s subtlety and vitality transfer well to textiles, adding an almost antique quality to and already distinctive work of art.

Because wall tapestries are textile based the weave often helps lift the original work making for a quite dramatic piece of décor. The best quality tapestries do an impressive job of not only reproducing the original detail, but add considerably to their charm and people can be quite taken aback at their distinctive nature.

Something for every taste

Nowadays many people are looking to antique world map tapestries to add some charm and history to their home decor. With a vast array of options to choose from, including posters, prints and wall tapestries, there’s never been a better time to appreciate these unique works of art.

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