This tapestry is inspired from a series of hangings known as Tenture des Maisons Royales (Series of French Royal Palaces), representing the twelve months of the year. Over the centuries, the depiction of the theme of the months of the year has often been adopted in the productions of sets of Wallhangings. This series was designed by the artist Charles Le Brun, and was originally woven in the second half of the seventeenth century at the Royal Gobelins Manufactory in Paris, for King Louis XIV. The style of the design features a Royal Residence in the background of a landscape which is framed by a sumptuous architectural motif: a colonnaded portico garlanded with flowers. Below the chateau, a party of horsemen ride through the wooded countryside surrounding the palace. In the foreground on a balustrade are displayed a golden bowl full of fruits, together with various draperies, thus combining the elements of nature with symbols of a sophisticated civilization. The balustrade serves the purpose of creating a unique sense of perspective to the whole design. This tapestry is fully lined incorporating a sleeve along the top for hanging with a Hines hanging rod. Alternatively, this tapestry can be hung with a wooden batten which is a concealed method of hanging. Composition: 52% cotton, 48% wool Finish on reverse: This tapestry is fully backed with luxury cotton lining incorporating a sleeve along the top for hanging purposes.