Tapestries
What Makes a Tapestry?
Is a tapestry merely a rug or carpet hung on the wall? Yes, but no. “Yes” in the fact that a tapestry is made using the same materials and techniques that create a masterfully handcrafted rug. But a tapestry is so much more than a vertically displayed carpet.
While any carpet has the potential to be hung on the wall for either warmth or décor, a tapestry was created for this purpose. In fact, a tapestry would most likely look out of place on a floor, since it normally has an “up” and a “down” side. A tapestry is a picture, while a rug is more often a design.
Tapestry making was at its zenith during the 15th Century in the Loire Valley in France, based on examples and techniques brought by traders and travelers from the Middle East, Asia and Moorish Spain. Thousands of artisans used the fine craftsmanship of rug making to depict religious stories, secular battles and historical accounts of royalty. Tapestries of old had a very muted appearance, due to the style of using no more than twenty different colors and shades in each masterpiece. Modern tapestries are still created for enjoyment where they belong, hanging on a wall to add grace and elegance to homes and offices. Please feel free to browse the assortment of beautiful tapestries in our collection at Kamran’s Oriental Rug Bazaar, in Sacramento at 737 56th Street.