Large fragment of Aubusson tapestry after a model... Lot 439

Large fragment of Aubusson tapestry after a model by the painter Joseph Vernet (1714-1789) Tenture des marines, also called "port scene". This famous hanging, reused several times throughout the 18th century in consideration of its great success, illustrates the trade between Europe and the East, established by the Compagnie des Indes. The scene is located in a port. In the foreground a couple with a child is standing near a ship in which a sailor smoking a pipe is leaning over a barrel. At the back of the boat there are several characters. In the background there are small figures in front of the ramparts, behind which a town can be seen. Weaving in plain weave circa 1770. 220 x 232 cm Some old restorations are visible, the small two-coloured framing braid is added. Bibliography: Les belles heures de la tapisserie after Dario Boccara, ed les clefs du temps 1971, pages 207, 210, 211, different tapestries but of the same hanging are commented and reproduced in colour.