Using Tapestries for that Medieval Look

The Wikipedia defines tapestries as textile art, but when I was young we always thought of  them as wall rugs, mind you we would NEVER use them as floor rugs.

Being easy to roll up and transport, they were popular for a number of reasons……in churches, they were brought out on special occasions, and in the winter, the tapestries would help insulate a castle wall and at the same time giving an added bonus for the eyes.

Tapestry decoration is not something new to our age, using tapestries and actually making them,  took place during the middle ages and it was only the rich and famous who could afford to decorate in this fashion but now, reproductions are available and much more affordable. The Gothic form of medieval tapestry has always been popular, with religious themes, mythical creatures, spectacular landscapes and flowers being the focus of the prints.  Victorian imagery has also been a part of the gothic style and is a lovely fit to a home.

Many tapestries depict actual events and incidents that occurred during that time period and are extremely helpful as they provide authentic and in some cases rare information about a time that no longer exists.  Many depict the original designs of the buildings that may no longer exist.

It has been said that The Cluny Museum in Paris holds many original pieces of medieval wall tapestries. Most of today’s reproductions have come from those original great masterpieces. Two very popular forms of tapestries is the Lady and the Unicorn series displaying myth and legend, and the other is the Bayeux tapestry depicting scenes of the famous Battle of Hastings.  You would be able to bring in an element of amazing historical charm into your home by hanging a beautifully crafted reproduction wall hanging. Also if you know anything related to paintings and art, German and Roman art can contribute to the décor.

One of the best things about medieval tapestries is that they never go out of style. For the last 500 years they have hung in  some of the most beautiful homes, estates and palaces in the world.   They can surely give your home a look that is fit for royalty

Unique medieval décor is immensely popular if you want to give a historical feel to your home. I am totally intrigued with the décor of the middle ages and if you’re like me, why not bring some of that “goth” into your life and home?

 
Whether your home is a house, an apartment, a trailer or other, you can still make your space comfortable, even if it is temporary. Here are some ideas to bring in the “goth” Remember you don’t need tons of money to transform your space, just a creative mind and an eye for what feels right to you.

Hang tapestries on the wall, use floor length curtains, hand chains over the curtains, use wrought iron curtain rods, install floor to ceiling book shelves, use wrought iron plant stands, wooden furniture with or without iron accents, wall papers, faux finishes, wainscotting, , cushions for chairs, fabrics on chairs, wrought iron items with pointed arches and curled ends.

Flooring that resembles stone, area rugs, , install stained glass or decorate your windows with the stain glass look, use dragon or gargoyle book ends, candle stick holders, paper weights, chandeliers, sconces, sword and shield on the wall, knights in armor by the door.
Take any of these ideas and play with them, molding them to your liking and your taste. Let loose your imagination and have fun fun fun!!!!

Use colors to “age”  your home.

You don’t need to go with the latest trends in color to spruce up your place.  Medieval colors are usually dark colors like blues, reds, purples, oranges, gold, scarlets, umbers, azures and browns.

You could add some to your walls to accent furniture, (as in a painting technique to make your wall look like stone) or paint an entire wall as an accent color (maybe a deep purple or blue).  You can use  bronzing, silver leafing, stencils, and other finishes to add accents to moldings, and furniture.

These are just some ideas to get you thinking about what you like and what you want. Always remember, it is YOU who chooses.

There will be more to come on this subject.  Stay tuned…..

Accessories well placed, will catch the eye.

Accessories can add that final touch of medieval times into your space.   Some items that you can consider are fabrics, (satins and crushed velvet is one type you can use). Studs, brackets hinges and handles can be bought in a variety of gothic styles and added to furniture and cabinets.

Mirrors with carved wooden frames add grandeur to any room.  Gargoyles, dragons, gryphons  and knight bookends to hold your books together.  Doorknockers are also a fascinating feature.

Torches on the wall down a hall or outside a bedroom, sconces on the wall, wrought iron or pewter candle holders on the walls or a candle chandelier in iron or pewter hanging from the ceilings.

You can add replicas of weaponry like stunning shields, swords, helmets, complete suits of armor, daggers, spears, and axes. Small sized knight statues on horseback for the table will look amazing. If you have a lot of room why not add a large sized knight statue in the living room or just outside of the door to the bedroom or the living room or the bathroom or outside the door on the porch.

Dragon and gargoyle figurines and/or sculptures and pictures.  If you’re good at crafts and art, you can dress your windows to look like stained glass.  These were a hallmark of the medieval period and are quite unique.  When placed in prominent places, they tend to attract a lot of attention and can make be the subjects of interesting conversations.  Always keep you eyes out for knick knacks at garage sales or thrift stores.