Fragment of a Tapestry or Wall Hanging

Unknown

ca. 1420–30 · Tapestry weave: wool on linen · The Cloisters

This tapestry fragment represents a fabulous lionlike beast with pointed teeth, clawed feet, and a scaly rump. Such beasts, derived from those illustrated in classical texts like the Physiologus and medieval bestiaries, represent vices. Here the figures posed with them seem to have tamed their libidinous cravings. Such tapestries were displayed in homes providing decoration as well as insulation.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1420–30

Medium

Tapestry weave: wool on linen

Culture

Upper Rhenish

Department

The Cloisters

Credit line

The Cloisters Collection, 1990