Rare Cluny Tapestries Captive Unicorn Crewel Embroidery Kit Peterson

Cluny tapestries are among the most beautiful art treasures of the world. Also called "Lady and the Unicorn" tapestries, they were created late in the medieval period, circa 1500, likely in the workshops of Flanders. Originally offered as an engagement present to Claude de Vista by Jean de Chabanne in 1512, these magnificent works of art have been housed in Paris in the Musée de Cluny (from whence the pieces derive their name) a once medieval cloister, since 1882. Enthusiasts know the tapestries represent the six senses — Sight ("la Vue"), Hearing, Smell, Touch ("le Toucher"), Taste ("Le Gout"), and Love ("A mon seul Desire") and are all exceptionally detailed. Other designs featured nobility of the period enjoying their favorite past- times, such as hunting and falconry. Notable designs from this series include The Chase (la Chasse) and The Ladies (les Damoiselles). The most famous "Unicorn in Captivity" comes from one of the hunting series, and is on display at the Metropolitan Museum in New York. Alice Peterson's faithful reproduction for the crewel enthusiast beautifully captures the extraordinary details of the Unicorn in Captivity. The unicorn resides in a beautiful garden filled with vibrant flowers, enclosed by a gate and chained by its neck to a Ta pomegranate tree. The famous mille fleur animals and flowers are abundant . Truly a rarity~ a must have for the collector! Simply Fabulous!

Size: 15" x 15" Kit contains: Hand Screen unicorn design on 100% cotton background fabric of deep blue; 100% persian wool yarn, 100% cotton floss and metallic thread in aple quantities. Complete instructions for this project, which is simple enough for the beginner, yet has a variety of stitches to please the advanced needleworker. Proudly made in the USA

Artist: Alice Peterson's adaptation of Cluny designs

Manufacturer: Brentwood Designs

Year/Condition: ©1981/ Vintage New