Lot 217

17th Cent. Royal Aubusson Louis XIV Tapestry

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17th Cent. Royal Aubusson Louis XIV Tapestry

Estimate: $2,000 - $8,000

Current Bid: $450

(4 Bids)

by Akiba Galleries
June 30, 2026 11:00 AM EDT
Live Auction
3 N. Federal Highway
Dania Beach, FL, US 33004

17th Cent. Royal Aubusson Louis XIV Tapestry
17th century, French
17th century Royal Aubusson handwoven wool tapestry attributed to the Aubusson Manufactory depicting the heroic return of King Louis XIV. Inspired by a cartoon by Francois Boucher.
See details (translated from French):
*Border: In the upper center, the caduceus of medicine, Aequanimitas. Unusual staff with, on one side, the head of the King's jester and on the other, an eagle's head, which are part of the King's coat of arms. The King's crown is depicted on either side of the tapestry, and on the same level, delicately crossed, is the King's pair of gloves, a symbol of rest. The King's helmet is also placed on either side of the border, from left to right. The medallions represent a soldier and a lady of the period: wine jars are also depicted on either side. Lower center features a flaming heart pierced by an arrow, symbolic of passionate love.
*Theme and Composition: Tapestry is composed of six figures: five ladies plus King Louis XIV, depicted with a crown of flowers on his head. A bed and table are at the center of the composition, where a basket of fruit is placed. Two elegant courtesans await the King. The King's favorite courtesan stands behind him, offering him a cup of wine and supporting his sword. The symbol of cupid is visible on the jar another courtesan holds. The symbol of the long night is represented by two owls. The greyhound, King's dog, are attentive to the scene of the courtesans. All these figures convey the idea of a gallant fete, Hymn to King Louis XIV.
*Working Method: Tapestry is entirely handwoven from worsted wood, spun on a fine weave. The warp thread of this tapestry is also wool but disappears completely into the body of the tapestry, to support weft. "This study is based on information received during visits to workshops such as the world-renowned Royal Tapestry Workshop in Mechelen".

Included paperwork states the following (translated from French):
Royal Aubusson Tapestry
17th Century
Depicts Louis XIV
More: Heroic Return of King Louis XIV
Colors: Neutral tones, green, gray, beige, the dominant color
Material: Wool, entirely handwoven
Condition: restored in some areas
Period: Louis XIV (1643-1715). Certainly inspired by a cartoon by Francois Boucher

*References and information taken from included Elaine C Rochefort paperwork.

Provenance: Paperwork includes "Provenance de la Tapisserie Royal D'Aubusson", stating that "the tapestry belonged to existing Royal Family, it stayed in castles in Belgium. We find its trail in Italy where it made a brief stay. After a very long journey we find it in Nice at the home of the President of the Association of Antiquaries of Nice. And finally purchased by Mr. Charles Akiba who currently has it in his gallery in Miami."

  • Dimensions: 185" x 118"
  • Condition: Antique condition with age related wear and tears. As stated in paperwork, restoration has occurred.

    Unless otherwise stated, all information provided is the opinion of our specialists. Should you have any specific questions regarding the condition of this lot, please use the ask question button or send us an email to [email protected]

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $24,999 $1,000
$25,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $249,999 $10,000
$250,000 + $25,000