Tapestries & Textiles from Around the Globe

As tapestries go, there are probably none more famous than the Bayeux Tapestry, which tells the tale of the Norman invasion of England in 1066.

It is a brilliant example of how to tell a story through art and fabrics. These can range from Flemish tapestries and Far Eastern silks to English Medieval church embroidery, and European table covers. Many of the pieces in this category – provided they have been stored safely – will have unique histories and present fascinating views into the past.

Textiles remain a constant that have woven together cultures across time. While the fibres and designs may evolve or differ, textiles have connected people across places, illustrating regional artistry and innovation.

Historically and technically, the term tapestry designates a weft-faced (threads moving along the width) textile woven by hand on a loom, the design of which includes various or single figures. While their history dates back to Ancient Greece and China, those created during Medieval and Renaissance Europe remain most popular.

Starting in the early fourteenth century, a sizeable industry capable of producing a steady volume of large, high-quality tapestries developed in the towns of northern France and the southern Netherlands.

Local guilds, availability of skilled weavers and dyers, as well as commissions by local patrons, encouraged the development of this budding industry, and by the mid-fifteenth century, numerous tapestry workshops existed in the Low Countries. From these towns of production, tapestries were then exported all over Europe.

Our team of industry-recognised specialists at Doerr Dallas works together to offer you an independent service to provide valuations of fine art, antiques, jewellery, watches, carpets and rugs and classic cars, we also offer a full range of other art-related advisory services.

We offer our clients a personal, professional, friendly, discreet and completely confidential service.

We work closely with leading firms of insurance brokers, insurers, solicitors, wealth managers, private banks and professional advisers to provide an efficient and timely service.