Imagine the happy dance I did without actually moving when I was at a brocante and unrolled this Aubusson cartoon years ago. It measured four feet. The dealer had several, the cartoons I thought were the prettiest I bought. And I then sold them.
Those who have been following know how often I frequent the brocantes here in France. Yes, my house is stuffed, but I do have clients that I buy for, which allows me to walk into our house and not feel like a hoarder.
“Aubusson tapestries are a stunning art form rooted in centuries-old tradition, originating from the town of Aubusson in France. Here’s a look into the intricate process:
- Design: It starts with a “cartoon” or full-sized design, usually created by an artist specifically for the tapestry. This design acts as a blueprint and is often richly detailed, with carefully planned colors and motifs.
- Dyeing the Yarn: Skilled artisans dye wool, silk, and sometimes even gold or silver threads to perfectly match the cartoon’s colors. Aubusson tapestries are known for their nuanced color palettes, achieved by expertly mixing and dyeing shades that produce subtle gradations.
- Setting up the Loom: Traditionally, Aubusson tapestries are woven on a high-warp or low-warp loom. In a low-warp loom, the design is placed underneath the warp threads, allowing the weaver to refer to it while working. The warp threads run horizontally, meaning the weaver can view the piece in sections as they work.
- Weaving: The weaver begins the delicate process of weaving the tapestry, thread by thread, using the cartoon as a reference. With techniques like “point de gaze” or “flat point,” weavers build intricate images row by row. They work from the back side of the tapestry, which means the weaver can only see the full piece when it is removed from the loom. This requires an incredibly skilled hand and a deep understanding of color blending.
- Blending Colors: Aubusson tapestries are famous for their color blending, creating a painted effect in textile form. Using multiple shades of yarn within a single section allows for shadows, highlights, and gradation in color, giving the tapestry its signature depth and realism.
- Finishing: Once weaving is complete, the tapestry is removed from the loom. The artisans inspect it for any necessary touch-ups, including cleaning and trimming. It’s then carefully finished to prepare for display.
The process can take months or even years, depending on the size and complexity. These tapestries are more than just decorative pieces; they’re heirlooms that capture history, culture, and an unparalleled level of craftsmanship. The skill and patience of Aubusson weavers have made this art form a revered symbol of French heritage, recognized by UNESCO for its cultural significance.”
Imagine my shock and anger when I saw some antique dealers cutting up gorgeous Aubussons to make them into pillows!
They told me, “… few people have room for a massive Aubusson, but everybody has room for a pillow. And besides, we can make far more money making pillows.”
Living in France has made me appreciate the culture and history, the time and effort, and the value of antiques. Yes, I have sold and sent many French antiques overseas, so maybe I’m part of the problem, too. But I can hardly cut up an old ribbon, let alone an Aubusson.
“… The cartoon painters are the masters of the graphic language of the tapestry. They execute the “cartoon” (or “carton”), which constitutes the working material of the weavers: it is a model, the work of an artist adapted to the dimensions of the future tapestry – whether it is wall-hanged, on the floor or an upholstery. Slid under the warp yarn of the low warp loom, it guides the craftsmen all along the weaving process.” via Cite International Tapisserie Aubusson.
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