Set of Ovid's Metamorphoses

Each tapestry illustrates a scene from Metamorphoses, written by the ancient Roman poet Ovid. The poem is comprised of fifteen books and contains more than 250 myths. These tapestries were produced in Paris by the royal Gobelins Manufactory during the 1700s. Gobelins was founded in 1662 for the purpose of furnishing French royal homes with the highest quality textiles. Gold and silver thread and silk were woven together to create luxurious tapestries like these.

A horizontally oriented tapestry in muted greens and browns, depicts people with light skin tones wearing blue and pink garments across three panels with red and gold borders. On the left, figures rest beside a stream. In the center, a man wearing armor and a red cape faces a large dragon in a forest. To the right, figures sit near a stone fountain with a red parrot. Small winged figures appear in the outer landscapes.

Set of Ovid's Metamorphoses

1704–31

Gobelins Manufactory

(France, Paris, est. 1662)

France, 18th century

Visually Similar by AI

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork

Artwork Page for Set of Ovid's Metamorphoses

Details / Information for Set of Ovid's Metamorphoses