Malterer tapestry, Medieval tapestry in Augustinermuseum, Freiburg, Germany
The Malterer tapestry is a medieval wool and linen weaving approximately 5 meters wide and under 1 meter (70 centimeters) tall. The piece was originally designed as a bench drape and displays carefully executed figures arranged in multiple scenes.
The tapestry was made in the 1320s and originated from the St. Catherine Dominican convent in Freiburg. It bears the coats of arms of Johannes and Anna Malterer, who were likely the patrons who commissioned the work.
The textile presents four double scenes featuring figures such as Samson, Aristotle, Vergil, and Iwein facing difficulties in their relationships with women. These scenes blend religious and secular narratives in a way that reflects medieval moral ideas.
The work is held in the permanent collection of the Augustinermuseum in Freiburg but is not currently on public display. Visitors interested in viewing it should check with the museum beforehand to inquire about its current availability.
The piece functioned in the Middle Ages as practical furniture accessory laid over sitting benches, yet combined artistically sophisticated narrative scenes. This fusion of everyday utility with high-quality artistic craftsmanship shows how artworks enriched private spaces in that era.
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