Gobelin tapestry got its name after the fabric painter family that had moved probably from Reims to Paris in the XVII. century – founding the famous weaving workshop. Louise XIV. raised it to a royal manufactory and supported the production. The technique itself is being used since the middle of the XV. century. Gobelin is an illustrated tapestry used primarily for covering the walls or the floor. Knight-era scenes, Biblical stories or allegories related to the customers were the most common illustrations. First the base material was wool, later then the carrier yarns were replaced to linen ones. In renaissance era, golden and silver threads were also used. As time went by, the technique continuously developed, the result became more colorful and flexible. The loom itself could be horizontal or vertical also.
Petit point is a handwork simulating this weaving technique, started at the XVIII. century in France. Its base material is silk or linen, but they are completely overlaid with embroidery. The topic can be practically anything. Upholstered furniture, cushions, table linen and female handbags were decorated with this method – such as everyday consumer products.
Conservation, professional cleaning and handling of such an antique tapestry is an important issue, since they are quite vulnerable, they can be damaged or even destroyed during use or incorrect storage. If we own such an antique one, let’s ask for the recommendations of a professional. Of course, modern gobelin imitations or gobelin-like mechanical products can be purchased in the shops. Cushions or blankets decorated with gobelin have returned to the fashion. Weaving and colors can easily tell us, if the product is not antique, anyhow they can provide the same feeling in a proper classic style interior.
If you would like an antique or new gobelin in your home, ask for help from an interior designer for the optimal arrangement and usage.