The Unicorn Tapestries: Medieval Masterpieces at The Met Cloisters
The Unicorn Tapestries, a series of seven panels crafted in the Southern Netherlands from 1495 to 1505, are renowned medieval masterpieces housed at The Met Cloisters in New York City, illustrating a unicorn hunt. The initial five panels depict a chase featuring noblemen, hunters, and hounds, leading to the unicorn's demise. The final two panels delve into the symbolism of the unicorn in medieval society, with the Mystic Capture portraying a maiden subduing the unicorn and The Unicorn in Captivity showing it in a garden. Interpretations suggest the unicorn represents Christ and the maiden symbolizes the Virgin Mary or a husband tamed by affection. J.P. Morgan acquired these tapestries, which are now showcased in a gallery themed around the medieval period.
Key facts
- The Unicorn Tapestries are a set of seven large panels from the Southern Netherlands, 1495-1505.
- The tapestries are housed at The Met Cloisters in New York City.
- The first five panels depict a unicorn hunt, following the narrative of a medieval stag hunt.
- The Mystic Capture of the Unicorn and The Unicorn in Captivity address unicorn symbolism.
- Medieval mythology held that only a maiden could subdue a unicorn.
- The Unicorn in Captivity is the most famous panel, showing the unicorn in a garden.
- Two interpretations exist: the unicorn as Christ or as a tamed husband.
- Over 100 plant species are depicted in five of the tapestries; two have millefleurs backgrounds.
- Scholars believe the tapestries may not have been a cohesive set, possibly hanging in a bedroom.
- The original owners are unknown; monograms 'AE' and 'FR' appear on the panels.
- J.P. Morgan purchased the tapestries and donated them to The Met Cloisters.
Entities
Institutions
- The Met Cloisters
- J.P. Morgan
Locations
- Southern Netherlands
- New York City
- USA