The hunting party - Lot 263

The hunting party Tapestry from the Saint Petersburg Manufactory. Mid-18th century, circa 1758 Wool and silk weave H. 3.65 x W. 2.82 m This interesting and very rare tapestry depicts a young man on the terrace ringing the bell to start the hunt. In the foreground, a pack of hounds responds to the call of the horn and moves towards the center of the composition, marked by the presence of a gadrooned jardinière decorated with a bouquet of climbing flowers, wrapped around a monumental vase adorned with sculpted putti. The scene is surmounted by two garlands of flowers and fruit held to a latticework of scrolls and curved forms, imitating the effects of gilded bronze. The tapestry retains its bright colors. It is in good condition, with some wear. Related work : A tapestry illustrating another theme, "verdure aux cygnes", is kept at the Hermitage Museum; Inv. ЭРТ-16196 Provenance: - C. JOHN Gallery, London. Purchased 1976; - Collection of Monsieur and Madame A., in their Hôtel particulier near the Champs-Élysées ; - By descent to current owner.