Violin and Lute Players from a set of five Grotesques 1683 - 1716

"Violin and Lute Players from a set of five Grotesques" is a tapestry designed by French painter Jean-Baptiste Monnoyer. The work is characterized by its intricate details and elaborate ornamentation. The tapestry depicts a scene of musical performance in an elegant setting. The central figures, a violinist and a lute player, are surrounded by rich floral motifs, architectural elements, and putti, creating a sense of opulence and playful fantasy. This particular tapestry was likely part of a larger set, known as “Grotesques,” that were commissioned by Louis XIV to decorate the royal palaces of France. The artwork was likely influenced by the decorative trends of the Baroque era, with its emphasis on grandness and intricate detail.