Beautiful Verdure Scene Antique French Tapestry, Country of Origin: France, Circa date: 18th Century– This splendid verdure antique tapestry brings a breath of fresh air inside your home. It was created in the 17th century in France. Verdure comes from the French word “vert,” which means green. They became a style that is attributed to the French aristocracy, but this term later spread to include tapestries of a similar style that were produced elsewhere in Europe. Earlier tapestries in this style featured complex foliage and flower motifs in a variety of green tones. Forests and Woodlands were popular themes.

It is not known when the first verdure tapestry was created, but they were quite popular by the 16th century. They were known before this time, but their peak of popularity was in the 1700’s when they became a favorite of the French courts. They are now recognized as their own art form and represent a special category of pieces.

Antique tapestries were important wall hanging common not only for decoration, but because they added warmth in stark Manorhouses and Estates. During the 1700’s, the artwork and style of the French aristocracy were opulent and over the top. Both fashion and interior design included layers upon layers of textures and expensive fabrics. Women wore fine silks and some highly sculptural hairstyles. The style frequently changed, according to the fancy of the French court, but throughout the period, verdure tapestries such as this one, remained popular.

In keeping with the style trends of the French court, verdure tapestries are known for layers upon layers of fruits, flowers and leaves. They use perspective to create a focal point and the appearance of distance. Shading is used to give the work a three-dimensional quality and create a realistic representation of the scene. This is an excellent example that uses these artistic principles.

This wonderful antique verdure tapestry has an impressive range of colors, particularly in the wide variety of greens that are portrayed. The artistry and color combinations come together in a way that gives it depth and makes it almost appear as if you are gazing out onto a real scene from a window. This is a truly remarkable piece that could be used as originally intended, to bring a bit of nature to the interior of the space.