Tapestry from the Manufacture Royale d'Aubusson,... Lot 375

Tapestry from the Manufacture Royale d'Aubusson, mid-17th century. Technical characteristics : Wool and silk. Dimensions: Height: 275cm; Width: 490cm. The theme of this tapestry is the life of Judith, the heroine of the Old Testament. Here, we see her on a pedestal, nobly dressed, brandishing at arm's length the head of the Assyrian general Holofernes, which she has just taken out of the sack held beside her by her old maid. The Assyrian army having laid siege to the town of Bethulia, Judith, using her charm, is accepted into the military camp, next to the general, whom she beheads while he sleeps. This allegory takes place in the early hours of the morning, within the city walls, where the inhabitants of the tribe of Zebulun are astounded by the feat of their fellow citizen, while the Assyrian soldiers are completely horrified to see their commander-in-chief having passed from life to death. The macabre presentation is witnessed by a noble audience of soldiers in shimmering armor, brandishing weapons and standards, and high-ranking civilians in richly embroidered draped togas. Borders with exuberant garlands of flowers, acanthus leaves and fruit baskets. (Minor wear and maintenance restorations).