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The Foundation of Constantinople - Frencch Aubusson Tapestry 17th Cntury N 1381
About the Item
On May 11, 330, Roman Emperor Constantine I inaugurated a new city in his name, Constantinople. It is a second imperial capital, a new Rome, located on the site of the ancient Greek city of Byzantium and the future Istanbul. On the tapestry, the architecture in the background reflects this double oriental and classical heritage typical of this new empire. Indeed, a large and prestigious civil architecture was then built on a Roman model while respecting Eastern tradition. The city is an immense construction site illustrated by the multitude of scenes in the background where workers are at work constructing and reconstructing the buildings.
Not only considered the founder of the Byzantine Empire, Constantine was also the one who put an end to the persecutions against Christians and confirmed their freedom of worship. Ultimately, he was even baptized on his deathbed in 337. This dedication to Christianity is confirmed by the presence of the obelisk topped with a sphere and a Christian cross.
In the foreground on the right, the emperor himself is represented wearing a crown and carrying a scepter, in conversation with a worker, perhaps one of the city's architects. As a great military leader, Constantine was distinguished by his armor and his conquering posture. To his right, a crowned and richly dressed woman points out to him the construction of his empire overlooked by the Christian presence of the cross. It is an allegory of Faith, guiding the emperor in his decisions.
Next to him, Saint Helena of Constantinople is represented with an important crown due to her rank. Mother of Constantine, Saint Helena is a major figure in the Christianization of the empire. In particular, she undertook a pilgrimage to Jerusalem, during which she found the relics of the Cross.
Finally, to the left of the group of characters, the third woman is the personification of Holy Wisdom, hagia Sophia in Greek or: “Saint Sophia”. It is to this divine attribute that the largest church in Christianity at the time, the architectural masterpiece of the Byzantine Empire, will be dedicated: Hagia Sophia of Constantinople, the plan of which she brandishes.
- Creator:Royal Manufacture of Aubusson (Designer),Aubusson Manufacture (Weaver)
- Dimensions:Height: 102.37 in (260 cm)Width: 82.68 in (210 cm)Depth: 0.2 in (5 mm)
- Style:Aubusson (In the Style Of)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1620
- Condition:
- Seller Location:Paris, FR
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU4874139112962
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: Paris, France
- Return PolicyA return for this item may be initiated within 3 days of delivery.
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