Tapestry of Aubusson with the Banquet of Cleopatra, second half of the 17th cent. Cm 240x200

Tapestry of Aubusson with the Banquet of Cleopatra, second half of the 17th century

H 240 cm, W 200 cm

Manufacture: Aubusson

Second half of the 17th century

From the preparatory drawing of Isaac Moillon (1614–1673)

Large historical tapestry depicting the banquet of Cleopatra, the moment in which the queen dissolves one of her pearl earrings in wine to demonstrate to Mark Antony that she could offer the most expensive banquet in history. In antiquity, pearls were among the most costly luxury objects, and the gesture alludes directly to power, wealth and political authority.

The scene is organised around the banquet table, with cups, vessels and precious objects carefully arranged. In the foreground, a finely rendered ewer placed on the ground stands out for its sculptural presence and decorative quality, reinforcing the sense of luxury that defines the episode. Cleopatra and Mark Antony occupy the central area of the composition, accompanied by attendants and courtiers who frame the action without distracting from the main narrative.

The tapestry most likely belongs to a series dedicated to the History of Mark Antony and Cleopatra, based on preparatory drawings by Isaac Moillon. Moillon, painter to the King and brother of the renowned still-life painter Louise Moillon, produced numerous preparatory drawings for tapestries woven in Aubusson. Among his most famous creations are the cycles dedicated to classical heroes and heroines, including the Story of Ulysses, woven many times and today represented in the collections of the Aubusson Tapestry Museum.

The tapestry is woven in wool. It is without borders, likely due to an early adaptation for interior decoration. The reverse is lined with a carefully applied green fabric. Metal hanging hooks are sewn into the lining along the upper edge.

Good overall condition, consistent with age. Signs of wear and surface ageing, minor thinning and colour softening in areas, without compromising the readability of the scene. The lining is well preserved and provides good structural support.