In wool, depicting several scenes from the life of King Solomon, including, at the center, the Judgment of Solomon, the border representing the Four Elements with decorations of mythological creatures, birds, fantastic animals, and characters in classical dress
116¹⁄₂ in. (296 cm.) high; 117¹⁄₂ in. (451 cm.) wide

Anonymous sale; Christie's, Paris, 22 November 2022, lot 35;
where acquired by the present owner.

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This lot is offered by Christie Manson & Woods Ltd

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Lot Essay

This spectacular tapestry is part of the series on the life of King Solomon; it depicts several major scenes from the life of the sovereign, such as the arrest of Adonias and, of course, the famous Judgment of King Solomon.
It is especially notable for its spectacular borders illustrating the four Elements.
It should be noted that this series is mentioned as having been part of the collections of Joanna of Spain (1535-1573). This important collection is only known to us through her posthumous inventory, as most of the tapestries have disappeared. The document cites seven panels illustrating the theme of the history of King Solomon. Furthermore, this tapestry is to be compared with another, with an identical border, owned by the Toms collection.