Le Elephant

In Le Elephant tapestry we see an exotic scene of an elephant in his elaborate garments. This gorgeous design is based on a design thought to be by Jean-Baptiste-Amedee Couder, 1797-1864, and originally woven by the Aubusson carpet weavers by Alexis Sallandrouze of 1808-67. Indian and Asian influence on French art became established from the 18th and 19th century as explorers saw and came back to Europe to describe the exotic findings they discovered, including the luscious tropical landscapes and the elephant, an animal used to carry the maharajas and kings of Eastern lands. Here we see the Asian elephant in his woven garments and accompanied by a pair of tropical birds, amongst palms, vines and flowers as well as a pheasant running through the foliage. Le Elephant tapestry is backed with a lining and has a tunnel for easy hanging.