Hannah and the Infant Samuel 1785 - 1799

This tapestry, depicting Hannah and the Infant Samuel, was made in the Imperial Russian Tapestry Manufactory in Saint Petersburg. The primary material is wool, meticulously woven to recreate an oil painting by Rembrandt. The tapestry's appearance is entirely dependent on the weaver's skill. Notice how the texture of the wool subtly influences the softness of light and shadow in the scene, originally conceived in paint. This required a team of weavers, each contributing their labor to the overall effect. The detailed work speaks to the manufactory's ambition to compete with fine art painting, turning the traditional craft of tapestry into a display of imperial power and wealth. Tapestries like these were emblems of status, reflecting the owner's ability to commission such elaborate, labor-intensive pieces. Considering the materials, making, and context of this piece deepens our understanding. It challenges the traditional distinctions between craft and fine art, inviting us to consider the social and economic forces that shape all works of art.