Tapestries in American D

A tapestry exudes warmth, colour and adds an interesting design perspective in the home. Tapestries have been used in American homes for centuries and were the height of fashion in the 17th and 18th century. They suit any period home and remain a popular choice today.

Early Colonial Use

Tapestries were brought to America by European colonists who aspired to be as refined as the well heeled in their mother countries. America saw a number of fashions imported from Europe at this time to ensure the new immigrants kept up with changes in vogue. Tapestries were used as wall hangings or bed hangings and European made work was often listed among the most valued item in a householder’s inventory. At this time the best bed in the house was often decorated lavishly with tapestry art and found more often in a parlour than a bedroom.

Parlours and best rooms in the 18th and 19th century saw rich fabrics and tapestry used in the d