Tapestries were used as early as the Hellenistic period, this art of weaving only reached a new level during the 14th century in Europe, specifically in France, Switzerland, and Germany. Two centuries later, Flanders became Europe's center for tapestry production.



William Morris along with designer Edward Burne-Jones, started making tapestries with the Medieval events depicted in the weavings. An enormous amount of work was put out by Morris & Burne-Jones where some of the most important tapestry designs were born. Scores of these designs are still being woven today.

These European tapestries are popular in highlighting important times in history and in the arts and literature. The Bayeux Tapestry is a popular French tapestry, which illustrates the The Battle of Hastings in 1066. This was when Normandy invaded England. This tapestry depicts the events leading up to the invasion and the battle itself, during the Norman period of Europe.

Two other major European tapestry pieces include "The Hunt of the Unicorn" and "The Lady and the Unicorn." The "Hunt of the Unicorn" is a seven-part tapestry piece about the hunt and the capture of the mythical beast. This series has several underlying themes, although its evident Catholic allusion is the most evident and most accepted.

Morris includes several tapestry pieces on the Arthurian legend of Camelot. This was a stable theme in their European workshop. The most notable work is the quest of the Holy Grail. This tapestry series shows the Knights of the Round Table during their quest for the chalice - used by Christ.

Because of its rich history, European tapestries are popular around the world today. Because of the efforts of Morris and other European tapestry weavers, mass reproduction of these tapestry masterpieces is now possible. There are also tapestry replicas of various European artworks.

Try to find the high quality replicas of these European tapestries for decoration in your home decor. A trusted source is Decor4u, as well as other online tapestry shops that can help make it fast and easy when seeking out classic wall decor. Having a European tapestry is like owning a piece of history.