A period that spanned for over 700 years, the medieval period is also referred to as the Middle Ages, a time marked by various historical events. It was during the late medieval period when the Renaissance, or the age of cultural advancement, began in Europe. The use of tapestry is also very common during the Middle Ages. In these times, various tapestries-usually the ones with emblems or coat of arms-are hung behind a throne. Tapestries were used as a symbol or sign of authority and were also a sign of prestige. Besides using it for display, tapestries also had practical uses.



Medieval tapestries were used for insulation, privacy, and decoration in castles. And since the tapestry is portable, the wealthy took their woven fabrics with them during their travels. During the beginning of the Renaissance they used for special occasions as decorative means. Flanders was at the center of tapestry production in Europe.

The Valois tapestries are popular tapestries that depicted the middle ages. It is composed of 8 tapestries showing images of festivities at the Court of France. Said to be owned by Catherine Di Medici, King Henry II of France's queen consort. Drawn by renowned illustrator Antoine Caron, and there was a second artist who worked on the tapestries. Some thought the second artist was Lucas de Heere, a Flemish poet / painter. Other famous medieval tapestries include the historic Bayeux Tapestry and The Hunt of the Unicorn.

William Morris and Edward Burne-Jones were major figures in the resurrection of medieval tapestry. One of their famous creations is the tapestry depicting the quest of The Holy Grail. Created during the 19th century, several years after the middle ages, their works have perfectly illustrated the beauty that is the craft of making works-of-art and tapestry wall art hangings. Although mass-produced, the tapestries rival the beauty of the original pieces. Mass production also meant the tapestry was no longer as expensive and became more affordable for the public.

Currently, tapestries are used as decorations and are collected by art enthusiasts. The best tapestries, according to collectors, are those that narrate a story-which is common for Medieval tapestries, since the Bayeux Tapestry and The Hunt of the Unicorn, for example, present a narrative. Therefore, it is not surprising that even now many popular tapestry replicas in existence are those with medieval themes.

Medieval tapestries are among the most popular, because of the vast period of time it covers and the themes it emcompases. From brave knights and noble kings and queens and the castles that keep them safe, to the men and women as well as mythical creatures they provide great fun and educational entertainment in the telling of these fables.

The Medieval Art Tapestry wall hangings are works-of-art and can bring a common room to life. Not only does the style and colors attract the eye in an attractive way, but the a conversation usually follows. Who can resist the telling of might, magic and myth of these days long gone.

Camelot is romance and excitement filled the castle grounds with action and these days should not be forgotten in the stories for our children. Turn off your TV and have a conversation and story telling time while gazing upon one of these fine classics.