I am attempting to acquire at least some information on what I believe is quite a unique wall hanging tapestry or decorative rug. At this time, I have no idea of when it might have been made, by who, where it was made, etc. and would like to find out just some general information on it. It'd be nice to find out if its worth something, though i'm not really expecting it to be worth too much really.
First of all, I would like to say that I know very little about tapestries altogether. It was passed down to a friend from his grandmother, which is really all I know about it.
Details about the item:
(a) I believe it is velvet, b/c of its vivid color and texture, which I believe is unique to velvet. Although the pictures I have appeneded are perhaps not especially indicative of this, this is due to the poor quality of the camera i used and the lack of good lighting; in fact, the colors are vivid and bright and quite beautiful. Also note that, although the pics are fairly dark as thumbnails, they are easily visible when enlarged. If for some reason they aren't good enough, let me know and i can try to get some that are better lit.
(b) It is 4 x 6 feet.
(c) It has no markings--i.e., no tags, no stamps, and apparently no signature (or at least no signature that i can locate).
(d) The tapestry depicts an elephant hunting scene, featuring a large elephant in the foreground with a black tribesman high off the ground in his trunk, as what appears to be an English hunter takes a shot at him. Another English hunter is watching the event without action. Meanwhile, another tribesman seems to be about to defend his friend with a spear, as a different tribesman is fleeing the scene. In the near background, two more elephants are shown smiling. Indeed, the elephant who has taken hold of the man also seems to be smiling and happy. Because the elephants in this hunting scene are actually winning the battle.
. . .
Please let me know if there is any further information that might be helpful to anyone who can help.
--cgStarling
Re: Wall Tapestry -- vintage wall hanging tapestry rug...
We have one of these too, hanging in our living room. We got it at a thrift shop for $5 but thought it was just so unusual we had to have it. We think it's from the 40's maybe. Ours has no tassles on the sides and also has no identifying labels.
Nice to see someone else has the same one!