232 - Important wool and silk tapestry from the Royal Manufactory of Aubusson, second half of the 18th century

Important wool and silk tapestry from the Royal Manufactory of Aubusson, second half of the 18th century Scene of rural revelry featuring a game of blind man’s bluff, based on the *Tentures des Amusements Champêtres*. Inspired by cartoons by Jean Baptiste Oudry and later by Jean Baptiste Huet. Inspired by the workshop of François Grellet at the Royal Manufactory of Beauvais. Bertrand’s book, page 212 (figure 285) H_250 cm W_470 cm Conservation treatments In excellent condition The history of this subject is interesting because it also reflects a shift in taste during the 17th century. In the 17th century, large tapestries primarily depicted heroic, biblical, or mythological subjects. During the reign of Louis XV, tastes shifted toward the intimate, the gallant, and the pastoral. Aristocrats sought lighter designs for smaller, more private rooms. This relatively large tapestry suggests it was commissioned for grand residences and castles. The refined vision of love and high society is stylized through several symbols, notably: 1) the romantic couple or trio represents a game of love 2) the fountain symbolizes fidelity, emotions, and sometimes the passage of time 3) the central tree symbolizes the separation between the public and private spheres Works from this period often draw on the worlds of Oudry, Watteau, Boucher, or Huet: an idyllic countryside, where one could die happily, unfolds like a theatrical play. The game of Blind Man’s Bluff was originally designed between 1720 and 1730 by Jean Baptiste Oudry for the Royal Manufactory of Beauvais and was later revived, adapted, and developed by JB Huet in Aubusson. The subject of Blind Man’s Bluff is an ancient one. It is the precursor to the game of blind man’s bluff. Examples and variations can be found in collections dedicated to Aubusson tapestries, notably at the Cité Internationale de la Tapisserie, the Château de Seneffe, the Château de Panloy, the Musée Condé, and the Louvre Museum. Beautiful classical architecture to the right of the balustrade. A border of stylized bamboo adorned with garlands of polychrome flowers, creating the effect of a frame and a painting. Expert: Frank KASSAPIAN Expert: Frank KASSAPIAN