The Lady and the Unicorn. "Smell"

The Lady and the Unicorn
"Smell"
Paris (cartons), Flanders (weaving)
End of 15th century
Wool and silk
CL. 10831 - 10834

TheLady and the Unicorn tapestry, discovered in 1841 by Prosper Mérimée in Boussac Castle, then subprefect of la Creuse, became an immediate legend thanks to the works of George Sand. Purchased in 1882 by Edmond Du Sommerard, it was the subject of studies which identified its origin, inconography, and style. The tapestry is complete with its six pieces. Five of them illustrate each of the five senses. The sixth "To My Only Desire"stands out.
Fabulous animals, the lion and the unicorn, wear armour which identifies the sponsor as Jean Le Viste, a powerful personage close to King Charles VII. Familiar animals, a rabbit, birds, a monkey, inhabit the background of the tapestries and create a dream-like universe.

"Smell" : the Lady is making a flower chain. Behind her, the monkey once again provides the key to this allegory: he is inhaling the perfume of a rose he stole from her basket.