During this time Art flourished and came to embrace many elements, including Christianity. Medieval art emerged from a blend of Roman art and German art, thrown together during the upheavals of the Middle Ages. Its distinct, gothic look owes much to both its influences, and very quickly developed along distinct lines.



One of the most striking elements of this period was the development of tapestry weaving. Medieval tapestries, some of which still exist, helped set the tone not only for the development of textile arts but also helped elevate art itself.

Because of this even today many modern home dè(c)cor enthusiasts are looking toward Medieval tapestry art as an answer to their decorating dilemmas.

There are a number of recurring themes seen in work from the Middle Ages, including mythical beasts, sense and perception, glory and the celebration of great dynasties.

Of particular importance was the emergence of religious symbolism; using art as a means to communicate complex metaphysical concepts such as love and redemption. Art rose to the challenge and the sheer breadth of the art produced is one of the main reasons it remains an iconic and fundamental pillar of western art.

A great many famous works from the Middle Ages have been reproduced as modern wall tapestries. Some of the best examples from history are now available and are truly unique pieces of wall art.

One of the most popular is Les Vendanges (The Grape Harvest). Woven in the late 15th century it was designed to celebrate the annual wine harvest and it depicts the peasants gathering the grapes for use in wine making. The design includes the distinctive Mille Fleurs decoration typical of Medieval art.

During the Middle Ages art was commissioned by the wealthy and tended to reflect dramatic themes and religious symbolism. More rarely work was commissioned to depict everyday scenes, like Les Vendanges, offering a rare glimpse into life during Medieval times.

Another impressive example are wall tapestries inspired by the illustrated Medieval work Les Tres Riches Heures (The book of hours). As the name suggests it was a collection of text for each liturgical hour of the day which often included other supplementary texts such as calendars, prayers, psalms and masses for holy days.

The original manuscript was painted by three brothers, Paul, Hermann and Jean Limbourg from Flanders, believed to have been born between 1370 and 1380. The work was completed between 1412 and 1416. These tapestries depict the illustration from the calendar texts for various months, each related to an event associated with the time of year such as harvesting.

Because wall tapestries are textile based the weave often helps lift the original work making for a quite dramatic piece of dè(c)cor. The best quality tapestries do an impressive job of not only reproducing the original detail, but add considerably to their charm and people can be quite taken aback at their distinctive nature.

Nowadays many people are looking to Medieval tapestries to add some charm and history to their home decor. With a vast array of options to choose from, including some of the Middle Ages best works, there's never been a better time to appreciate these unique works of art.

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