the allure of french aubusson tapestry

I think I am spending too much time dreaming at the moment - it is my respite from all the painting and sanding that's been going on here.  

And today I am dreaming of a beautiful Aubusson rug to put on my newly painted floors.

I really adore the soft and subtle colours of these flat weave tapestry rugs , they are still manufactured today using the same techniques as in the 17th and 18th century.

 One of the reasons that the colours are so subtle is the use of natural dyes for the wools.  Never gaudy, and also very resistant to light fading problems.

Of course, if I lived in a château then I may be tempted by a wall hanging tapestry .... but I don't ... and I'm not!   I simply long for a good sized rug for a newly decorated bedroom......

For those with the deepest pockets, it is possible to buy original  tapestries to hang.   Sothebys regularly opens bidding at around $25,000 on 18th century Aubusson, but there are many still being made today in the centre of France that maintain that very special look and feel.   

Their designs and motifs are still totally in line with decorating today.   Personally I'd be worried to have something that precious in my home,.......

Many of these tapestries and rugs are between 9 to 12 feet long.  Quite magnificent in the centre of a room.    And even though they are so traditional and precious, I find they work just as well with priceless antiques as with contemporary feel of shabby chic and brocante.

unless of course your style is more Downton Abbey

the rug even works against white walls and floor .... hmmm...

And if a whole tapestry feels a little overwhelming, then there are smaller solutions like these stunning pillows made by the über-talented Debra at Acquired Objects.   Debra gets to handle priceless tapestries every day as she lovingly restores and gives new life to old textiles to make her sought after pillows. 

You can see her current selection for sale here.

So what do you think?  Even if this isn't a style you would immediately think of for your home ... do you agree that an Aubusson is actually way more versatile then it first appears?

Hope you have something fun planned for the weekend, 

thank you for reading me this week.