Wandtapijt met de geschiedenis van Niobe's hoogmoed, uit de Diana-reeks 1610

This tapestry depicting the story of Niobe’s arrogance was created by François Spiering in the late 16th or early 17th century. It’s made from wool and silk, woven on a loom, a process demanding immense skill and patience. The tapestry's material influences its appearance, with the soft, tactile nature of wool lending depth to the scene. The silk adds subtle sheen, and the weight of the piece speaks to its value as both decoration and status symbol. The weaving process involved interlacing colored threads to create the intricate design, a process demanding collaborative labor. The skilled weavers would have transformed raw materials into a complex image, employing techniques passed down through generations. Tapestries like these were not just decorations; they represented wealth, power, and cultural refinement. They tell us about the social context of the time, reflecting the opulence of the elite and the skilled labor required to create such luxurious items. Remember, understanding the materials, making, and context is key to understanding the full meaning of this artwork.