A Baroque Brussels tapestry from the 17th century, signed by Marcus de Vos, depicting Proserpine (Persephone) reaching for a pomegranate, and on the right side a dragon, probably from the chariot of Ceres, within a dense landscape; a satyr watches from behind a tree; in the center distance three figures rowing a canoe to shore; on the right side Cerberus, a centaur, satyrs and various figures appear; enclosed within dense ribbon-tied fruit and floral borders; the lower selvage with the Brussels town mark and the weaver’s signature, ‘MARCVS.DE.VOS.’  Marcus de Vos, recorded as working in Brussels from 1655-1700.

This piece is from a series of Brussels tapestries depicting the History of Ceres, with this particular tapestry depicting Proserpine, daughter of Ceres, plucking a pomegranate from a tree.  According to the myth, Proserpine was abducted by Pluto, god of the underworld.  Ceres searched everywhere for her daughter and caused the earth to remain barren until Proserpine was returned to her.  Pluto finally allowed Proserpine to return to earth for four months of the year, during which time the earth blossomed again. Wool with silk inlay and metallic thread highlights.  

Hanging: The tapestry comes ready for hanging, with linen backing and a strip of hook and loop tape at the top end, which can be connected to the opposite side of the supplied hook and loop tape, which could be tacked to your wall. For those who prefer the use of a tapestry rod, we can add the appropriate size loops to accommodate your needs. We now have a large selection of antique tapestry rods available as well, which we can provide detail upon request.

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