Feuilles de Choux

Title/Series: Feuilles de Choux Panel
Manufacture: Flemish/Enghien or Oudenarde
Date: 16th Century
Materials: Wool and Silk
Dimensions: 8ft. 1in. x 8ft.

The elements of Feuilles de Choux (literally, cabbage leaves) tapestry always include large leaves in an overall, often wild motif with animals of the hunt or exotic creatures admired for their beauty and rarity. These types of animals had had a symbolic significance in the Middle Ages, but by the 16th Century, designers are said to have chosen these animals as creations of their imagination.

The finely drawn, sharply outlined leaves of this magnificent panel distinguish it amongst the finest of Feuilles de Choux tapestries. This dramatic design is a probably a development from Millefleurs tapestries that featured only individualized plants amongst other subject matter.