The Middle Ages presented a clearer class distinction than ever before or since. From the throne of the absolute monarch to the lowliest servant, each level had different advantages and limitations. Education was only available at the highest levels; reserved for monarchs and their male progeny; priests; scholars and law students.
The uneducated masses made up the majority of society, and tapestries were a way of portraying both historical and mythological events for them in a format easily understood by young and old. The high cost of wall hangings made them a commodity beyond the reach of all but the wealthiest and most prestigious. However, there was one main access road that was open to all.
The Church – A Natural Meeting Place
Churches and cathedrals often used ornate tapestries hung on the walls to depict events in pictorial form. This allowed them to relate both religious and local history (at the time, there was no true separation between church and state, so this often became the same thing). Of course, the ruling powers could twist all the information so that the peasants received only what was considered appropriate for them to know.
In the case of religion, tapestries often featured depictions of different saints, mother Mary, and Christ himself in many different poses. Famous lines from Scripture came to life; The creation, Christ on the cross, the empty tomb, Elijah and the chariot and many others. Angels figured predominantly, and over the years the duality of man was explored with tapestries showing more secular scenes with a moral lesson.
Historical and Fantasy Tapestries
Famous events were also recorded; in France, the Bayeux Tapestry details the stages of the Norman Conquest and is considered the best historical account of the events of that time. Many question its veracity at certain points (apparently the twist was a factor in making the Normans appear in the best light possible), but there is no doubting its value. Dating from a time when written records were still scarce, many pieces of tapestry have been used in an attempt to reconstruct everyday life as well as the belief system of the time.
The 15th and 16th centuries showed a steady rise in interest in tapestry art, and many of the most famous wall hangings of the late Middle Ages date from this period. The Lady and the Unicorn series is believed to have been woven in the late 15th century and is now on display at the Musée de Cluny undergoing restoration. This is a widely reproduced design, which has proven to be a favorite over the years among those who choose tapestries to fill a portion of their interior decorating needs.
Other popular tapestry designs include romantic depictions of fair ladies and knights, and battles between knights in shining armor and scaly draconic opponents. These often include some minuscule looking supporting character: a favorite of the ruling monarch or a whim of the master craftsman. In other tapestries, scenes reminiscent of painters of the time are shown in great detail: struggles between man and his own warring natures are complete with pleading angels and darkly sinister demons.
modern medievalism
Reproduced in full color by modern looms, many of these legendary tapestries can now be enjoyed on the walls of the average homeowner. Like a print of a famous painting, these reproductions can bring a sense of richness and timelessness to a home, greatly increasing its appeal and exuding a sense of warmth and luxury. They can be hung in a family room or living room, a front room or hall, or a master or guest bedroom.
The vibrant use of color in most medieval tapestries actually makes them easy to decorate: simply choose one color as the base theme for the room and work in different tapestry colors as accents. You can try a shimmering jewel effect or more somber earth tones. Either way, the tapestry will serve as a focal point and tie the entire room together. Don’t be afraid to dress it up with tasseled lampshades, draped curtains and upholstered furniture for a renaissance touch!
Any homeowner trying to decide what to do with a large expanse of wall space should consider hanging tapestries as their solution. The affordability of this type of wall art makes them the perfect choice, and with so many different patterns dating back centuries, you’re sure to be able to find the perfect option to adorn your own wall and keep ancient stories alive.
