Armchair (part of a set of nine) 1730 - 1765

This armchair, crafted by Aubusson, presents us with a fascinating interplay of nature and artifice. Dominating the tapestry is the figure of a heron amidst lush foliage, evoking a sense of serene contemplation. Birds, throughout history, have symbolized the soul's journey and freedom. Consider how ancient Egyptians saw the heron as connected to the sun god Ra, representing new beginnings and immortality. We can even draw a parallel to the Renaissance, where ornithological depictions in paintings often alluded to divine order and the harmony of creation. Yet, here, the heron is woven into a tapestry adorning a chair—an object of human comfort and status. This juxtaposition sparks a deeper inquiry: How do we domesticate and transform symbols of nature and spirituality to reflect our own desires and societal structures? The image resonates with a collective memory of nature's symbolism, inviting us to ponder the cyclical relationship between humanity and the natural world.