Tapestry, Liberal Arts: Rethoric

During the Renaissance, in addition
to frescoes and marquetry, tapestries were one of the most widespread means of
decorating the walls of a dwelling. No court, castle or
cathedral was without a collection to hang on the walls of the rooms or along
the aisles and to be brought out for particularly important occasions. And because they were woven with wool and silk, they were a
practical way of protecting palace walls against damp and keeping rooms warm in
winter. Often monumental in size, they were highly prized works,
commissioned by extremely prestigious clients to celebrate their lineage and
had to meet certain requirements: they had to be luxurious and elegant, but at
the same time easily transportable, allowing them to be used on various
occasions and in different locations.
The subject of “liberal arts” shown here was particularly suitable for rooms
dedicated to intellectual pleasures.