Beschreibung:

A FLEMISH TAPESTRY FRAGMENT WOVEN WITH A UNICORN SECOND HALF 17TH CENTURY With central depiction of lion and unicorn, part section of griffin to right, in verdure forest setting, possibly Enghien or Felletin approximately 305 x 315cm Provenance: Formerly the Messel family collection at Nymans Removed to the Drawing Room at Holmstead Manor in 1947 after the disastrous fire and thence by descent to Oliver Messel Purchased from Oliver Messel by Frederick and Phyllis Baden Watkins for Flaxley Abbey, Gloucestershire Condition Report: The overall surface is quite loose and 'baggy'- when pulled taught on the ground the tapestry measures 312cm high and 316.5cm wide as best as we can measure. As per cataloguing- this is a fragment from larger tapestry. It has undergone restoration to include numerous areas of reweaving and stitch repairs to tighten the surface, repair old insect damages and loose threads. The borders are later. The surface is fragile, colours muted and dirty and has a musty smell. The colours have faded and later backing is very fragile and torn. Reverse showing numerous patch repairs. Please refer to additional images for visual references to condition which forms part of this condition report. All lots are available for inspection and Condition Reports are available on request. However, all lots are of an age and type which means that they may not be in perfect condition and should be viewed by prospective bidders; please refer to Condition 6 of the Conditions of Business for Buyers. This is particularly true for garden related items. We must advise you that we are not professional restorers or conservators and we do not provide any guarantee or warranty as to a lot's condition. Accordingly, it is recommended that prospective buyers inspect lots or have their advisors do so, and satisfy themselves as to condition and accuracy of description All lots are offered for sale "as viewed" and subject to the applicable Conditions of Business for Buyer's condition, which are set out in the sale catalogue and are available on request. Buyers are reminded that liability for loss and damage transfers to the buyer from the fall of the hammer. Whilst the majority of lots will remain in their location until collected, we can accept no responsibility for any damage which may occur, even in the event of Dreweatts staff assisting carriers during collection. Condition Report Disclaimer