#7209 • $12,500 Fine Hand-Woven Wool Tapestry After Adam Frans van der Meulen Royal Equestrian Scene in the Manner of the Gobelins Manufactory, 6'6" x 8'6"
Part of $15 Million | Part 2 | McLean Mansion on the Potomac | Online Estate Auction (live auction by Prime Auction Solutions)
High bid $1,500.00
Status: Sold
A magnificent hand-woven wool tapestry depicting an elegant equestrian scene in the grand tradition of 17th century French royal tapestries. The composition is rendered in the celebrated style of Adam Frans van der Meulen (Flemish, 1632–1690), the master painter appointed by Louis XIV as peintre ordinaire du Roy (ordinary painter to the King), renowned for his equestrian portraits, hunting scenes, and royal processions that glorified the French court. The Scene: The central tableau presents a gathering of mounted noblemen in a verdant landscape, their spirited horses captured in dynamic poses that display the anatomical precision for which van der Meulen was justly celebrated. The principal figure, resplendent in a rose-pink riding coat, commands attention astride a magnificent palomino horse, while fellow courtiers in period dress attend nearby. The gentlemen wear the plumed tricorn hats and flowing garments characteristic of the court of the Sun King. In the background, an expansive vista unfolds with distant architecture and soft atmospheric perspective in shades of blue, suggesting the rolling French countryside and the grandeur of royal domains. The Border: The scene is magnificently framed by an elaborate Baroque border featuring richly scrolling acanthus foliage, cornucopia overflowing with fruit and flowers, armorial trophies, and classical decorative motifs rendered in warm tones of russet, gold, brown, and crimson against a deep ground. This style of ornamental border was perfected at the Manufacture Royale des Gobelins under the direction of Charles Le Brun and became synonymous with the artistic grandeur of the Louis XIV era. Craftsmanship: This tapestry demonstrates exceptional hand-woven artistry in the French Gobelins flat-weave technique. The intricate detail throughout—from the expressive faces and flowing manes of the horses to the delicate rendering of foliage and costume—reflects the labor-intensive process requiring months of skilled work at the loom. The rich color palette of earth tones, verdant greens, soft blues, rose pinks, and creamy whites creates visual depth and harmony. Materials: Wool Dimensions: 6'6" x 8'6" Historical Context: Such tapestries were originally commissioned to adorn the great halls of palaces and châteaux throughout Europe. Van der Meulen's designs for the famous Histoire du Roy (History of the King) tapestry series at the Gobelins Manufactory established the visual vocabulary of royal magnificence that was emulated for centuries. This tapestry continues that distinguished tradition. An impressive decorative statement piece for grand interiors, suitable for installation in formal living spaces, libraries, or entry halls.
