10 Amazing Facts About Tapestries

Tapestries are decorative hand woven wall hangings, made with weft threads and one of the most prized possessions of many home decor lovers. Tapestries have witnessed legacies and in many cases, have been handed over from generation to generations. Today, tapestries are considered to be one of the most coveted decorative pieces of a home, mandala tapestry being one of the most popular motifs preferred.

Below we have listed 10 amazing facts about tapestries.

1.      Tapestries have been woven since times immemorial and inspirations for them were mainly derived from religion, history, mythology, allegory and ancient stories. They were popular not only because of their decorative value, but also because they insulated the walls of the churches and castles against cold weather. The art of tapestry making has been refined over the years. Tapestries are generally woven over a vertical loom.

2.      Weaving tapestries is a unique art in itself. Unlike cloth weaving, in which the threads are exposed on both sides, tapestry weaving in weft faced and the warp threads which are used are ultimately hidden in the completed work.

3.      In Europe, tapestries were first popularized in Switzerland and Germany and later Netherlands and France took over. Brussels became the centre point for tapestry weaving and earned much repute from 14^th century AD until 17^th century AD after which the Gobelins from Paris took over the monopoly. Arras in France also became home to tapestry weaving. After the French Revolution, numerous wall tapestries were burnt to recover some old gold threads which were used to weave them.

4.      Tapestries have earned world wide popularity post it’s use in the Europe and China. Tapestries woven in India and Morocco are known for the treatment of texture, patterns and colours.

5.      The front and the back of tapestries are alike, except for the portions of the intricate artwork made with threads of the same colour. A loose thread, which connects all the designs, is left hanging on the reverse of the tapestry. The colours of the tapestry are woven separately and later the little slits in between them are sewn up.

6.      Ancient Chinese tapestries or K’ossu used to be woven with silk and gold.

7.      Greek tapestry from 3^rd century BCE has been preserved in the Tarim Basin desert.

8.      The artist generally creates the painting on paper or linen and hands them over to the weaver to produce the same design on the tapestry.

9.      The weaver generally cannot see the tapestry until it is completely woven.  In case if he desires to look at it while it is being woven, he needs to use a mirror to view the reflection.

10.  In the recent times, tapestries can be found in all kinds of styles. Apart from the conventional landscapes, portraits and motifs, weavers can now weave your complete family tree on a tapestry for you to proudly flaunt in your homes.

In the modern times, hippie tapestry is mostly associated with the bohemian theme of decor. Today tapestries are used instead of headboards, wall hangings or to simply liven up an otherwise dull space.

5 Tips On How Tapestries Lend Character To Your Home Decor

Tapestries are traditionally woven textile art on a vertical loom in which the warp threads are completely woven into the work. The word tapestry has been derived from the French word tapisser, meaning ‘to cover with heavy cloth’. During the earlier days, churches and castles used to be adorned with tapestries during festivals and important occasions.  Over the centuries, tapestries have gained much popularity as a decorative display. 

Selecting the right tapestry can set the mood of your house and tell a story. Here we have shared five tips on how tapestries can lend a dimension to your home decor.

      1.  They can accentuate a wall

An otherwise mundane wall can look gorgeous with a tapestry. For example, you could consider hanging a mandala tapestry behind the bed or sofa to create a center of attention and thus, enliven the space. If you hang a tapestry depicting medieval times behind an antique, the vintage feel of the room will be perfectly set. Similarly, walls of the dining rooms and fireplaces are other spots where you can hang interesting tapestries and create a statement look.

       2. Tapestries narrate stories

Tapestries depict religious themes, romanticism, historical moments, natural landscapes and myriad moods of men and women. You can choose a story which fits your travelling experience and personal style. If you live by the sea, you can consider hanging a tapestry with sea as the theme. Indian tapestries are generally bright and bold while the impressionistic ones render softness to the walls. A hippie tapestry will enhance the bohemian look of your abode. You have to ensure that the tapestry you hang is in sync with the existing home decor.

      3.   They create an illusion of length, breadth or height

Tapestries make walls look expansive. Smaller rooms can use horizontal tapestries to create an illusion of breadth. If the wall is huge, several smaller tapestries can be hung in different heights or a single large tapestry can grab the attention. Tapestries open up spaces, therefore, they are ideal to be hung at the end of a hallway. Corners can seem osier if decorated with a plush reading chair and vertical tapestries behind it.

      4.   They make rooms warm and inviting

You could consider hanging a bright and inviting tapestry on the wall of your entrance so that your guests feel welcome. If you live in the colder parts of the country, you can use tapestries as a decorative piece as well as to keep your rooms warm.

      5.   Tapestries can be draped too

Certain tapestries can be effectively draped around furniture to create drama and induce character. The sofa in the living room can be draped with a quilted tapestry, the coffee table with a modern one. Beds will look bohemian if dressed with interesting tapestry. Similarly, dressers and dining rooms are other furniture whose beauty can be enhanced by throwing beautiful tapestries.

In order to enhance the character of your home, you would need the perfect tapestry and position it appropriately to appeal to the aesthetic senses of your visitors.