Lady and the Unicorn Tapestry Reproduction Value Guide

These late 20th to early 21st-century reproductions capture the intricate millefleurs style of the 15th-century originals housed at the Musée de Cluny. They are highly collectible for their faithful depiction of medieval allegories, specifically the five senses and the mysterious 'À mon seul désir' panel.

What affects the value of Lady and the Unicorn Tapestry Reproduction?

• Dimensions of the tapestry, with larger wall-sized formats commanding the higher end of the $150 range.
• The specific scene depicted, as 'À mon seul désir' is often the most sought-after panel by collectors.
• Condition of the weave, specifically looking for any fading from sunlight or fraying of the wool and silk threads.
• The quality of the backing material and whether original hanging hardware or tassels are included.

How to Identify Lady and the Unicorn Tapestry Reproduction?

• Look for a 'Made in France' label, often found on the reverse side, indicating its origin from traditional weaving centers.
• Examine the material composition for a blend of wool and silk, which provides the characteristic weight and subtle sheen of quality reproductions.
• Verify the presence of the iconic millefleurs (thousand flowers) background featuring a noblewoman flanked by a lion and a unicorn.
• Check for a hanging sleeve or tabs integrated into the top back edge, common in modern decorative wall hangings.

History of Lady and the Unicorn Tapestry Reproduction

The original 'Lady and the Unicorn' series consists of six medieval tapestries woven in the late 15th century. They are considered masterpieces of medieval art, often interpreted as allegories of the five senses, with a sixth, 'À mon seul désir', representing love or free will. These tapestries were rediscovered in 1841 and are now housed at the Musée de Cluny in Paris, France, attracting significant scholarly and public interest.