Belgian Tapestries Through The Ages - By: Charli Jhonson

When it feels like our home is missing something special that will make it more personal, the obvious solution is usually to decorate the walls. Adding a large piece of art to a blank wall can instantly add warmth and class to any type of room, whether it is a bedroom, living room, dining room, or even a hallway. Wall tapestries are a really hot product in the home decor industry these days and are beginning to take favor over more common (and generally more expensive) paintings.

When it comes down to purchasing a tapestry, there are so many different kinds to choose from. There are ancient tapestries, modern tapestries, European tapestries, Asian tapestries, etc. The designs, images, and themes of all the wall tapestries in the world are literally endless, with all kinds of cultural, historical, social, and natural elements found. Belgian tapestries are known to be among the finest and most coveted in the world. Only the most beautiful and historically significant tapestries are produced in Belgium and are made of the highest quality materials in the trade. Exported to tapestry merchants all over the world, the Belgian tapestry collection is extensive and very easy to come by, though not usually cheaply.

Belgian tapestries have existed since medieval times, crediting the country with hundreds of years of experience in the fine art of weaving. European tapestries originated in France before medieval times, though most French weavers fled to what is now known as Belgium during the Hundred Year War. Before the Jacquard loom, all tapestries were hand woven and therefore became a skill that was passed down through Belgian families for centuries after the first weavers arrived.

The Jacquard loom was invented in 1804 in Flanders, which occupies territories in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands. This made Belgium one of the first countries in Europe to mass produce tapestries, another big reason why Belgian tapestries are among the best of their kind. Today, Belgium's Jacquard mills are among the top tapestry manufacturers to produce and export tapestries in the world.

Most Belgian tapestries can be placed in one of two categories: Bayeux tapestries and Beatrix tapestries. Bayeux tapestries represent the medieval styles of the first Belgian tapestries. These tapestries are historically significant as they depict the events of and leading up to the famous Battle of Hastings in 1066. Various tapestries illustrate Harold's betrayal of Edward, Normandy's invasion of England, and the victory of William the Conqueror. These tapestries are all reproductions of the original Bayeux tapestries, one of the sole remaining artifacts of the Battle of Hastings, which are on display at the Reading Museum in Berkshire, U.K.

Nearly all other Belgian tapestries can be defined as Beatrix tapestries and are simply stunning. Beatrix tapestries are designed to illustrate the natural beauty and romance of nature, wildlife, and social scenery and are among the most exquisite tapestries that can be found. If you want to add elegance to your home, you will certainly achieve it with a Belgian tapestry.

About the Author

Tapestry weaving is an art form that has been handed down throughout the centuries, and will continue to be an integral part of Belgian culture for generations to come. Visit tapestries-tapestry.com to view our extensive collection of authentic Belgian tapestries.

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