A fine 18th-century Aubusson pastoral tapestry depicting a romantic tryst between a hunter and a shepherdess in a typically rural and architectural-themed landscape. The tapestry is in good general condition, showing some restoration on the lower part, and is mounted on a wooden frame.

The small French town of Aubusson, on the River Creuse, is famed for its tradition of weaving elegantly elaborate tapestries. They often depicted romantic pastoral, historic or architectural scenes and were particularly noted for their compositions of garlands and bouquets, becoming famous and sought after throughout Europe.

In 1665, the weavers of Aubusson were granted the title of “Royal Manufacturer”, and received commisions from Louis XV, Louis XVI and Napoleon I. A 1786 inventory lists more than one hundred Aubusson carpets at the palace of Versailles and a 1789 inventory of all royal palaces describes a great many more.