The Unicorn in Captivity Tapestry Value Guide

This high-quality Belgian wall hanging is a faithful reproduction of the seventh tapestry from the legendary 'Hunt of the Unicorn' series, originally woven circa 1495-1505. It is highly collectible for its intricate millefleurs background and symbolic imagery representing both courtly love and the Resurrection, as seen in the original masterpiece at The Met Cloisters.

What affects the value of The Unicorn in Captivity Tapestry?

• Physical condition of the weave, specifically looking for any pulled threads or fading in the cotton-viscose blend.
• The presence of original hanging hardware or a finished rod pocket on the reverse side.
• The vibrancy of the pomegranate juice stains on the unicorn's coat, which are a key detail of the historical design.
• Market demand for medieval-style decor and the specific dimensions of the wall hanging.

How to Identify The Unicorn in Captivity Tapestry?

• Look for a woven blend of cotton, viscose, and polyester typical of Belgian textile production from 1990-2010.
• Verify the specific 'The Unicorn in Captivity' motif featuring the unicorn tethered to a pomegranate tree within a circular fence.
• Check for the dense millefleurs (thousand flowers) floral pattern that characterizes this specific Brussels-style reproduction.
• Confirm the origin via a 'Made in Belgium' label, which is a hallmark of these high-quality late 20th-century decorative weaves.

History of The Unicorn in Captivity Tapestry

This design is a reproduction of the famous seventh tapestry in the 'Hunt of the Unicorn' series, originally woven in Brussels around 1495-1505. The original set was once owned by the Rochefoucauld family of France and now resides at The Met Cloisters in New York. The imagery symbolizes both courtly love and the Resurrection of Christ, as the unicorn is tethered to a pomegranate tree which represents fertility and marriage.