A monogram signed 17th century Edingen tapestry depicting the mythological and legendary scenery of “Alexander Encounters Thalestris”, Queen of the Amazons, from The Story of Alexander the Great. Marked: “EN” and heraldic weapon of the city for Edingen or Enghien in Belgium including markers mark(unidentified). A fine weave example executed in wool and silk. 380×345 cm.
Enghien tapestries were of very high quality and were made for an international market. In the 16th century, the Flemish towns of Enghien, Oudenaarde, and Brussels became leading tapestry centers in Europe, following Germany and France. The tapestries were a highly valued and prestigious art form during the 17th century. Enghien's workshops continued a tradition of large-scale production that became prominent after the early 1500s. Enghien tapestries were Flemish verdure and game-park tapestries, known for their dense foliage, animals, and occasional mythological or biblical scenes. While many were manufactured in Enghien and other Flemish weaving centers, direct “town marks” are rare.
Museums and collections worldwide hold Enghien tapestries, including the Musée Royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, and the National Trust in the UK.
Antiques – Decorative art, furniture and carpets, 30 October 2025