Smell (L' Odorat)

One of six tapestries in the “Lady and the Unicorn” or “La Dame a la Licorne” series, this striking work represents the sense of smell. Woven in the 16th century, “Smell” shows the lady weaving a necklace of scented flowers, with her maidservant holding a basket of flowers for her. Her monkey smells one of the flowers that has dropped to the ground. This work was ordered by the Le Viste family and their coat of arms is shown on the two flags pictured in the tapestry as well as the shields on the animals. They were believed to have been commissioned to celebrate Jean Le Viste’s appointment to the court of Louis XI. Though the exact origin is mysterious, the use of the Mille Fleur style means it was probably woven in workshops in Flanders. This wonderful tapestry can grace your home as well, thanks to this authentic reproduction of the original. It is lined on the back and has a tunnel for easy hanging.