Medieval Tapestries: Making and Meaning

The Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, the Standing Committee on Medieval Studies, and the Medieval Studies Interdisciplinary Workshop invite you to a behind-the-scenes and up-close exploration of four rarely-displayed medieval and early modern tapestries, led by Elizabeth Dospěl Williams, the MFA’s Penny Vinik Chair of Fashion, Textiles, and Jewelry. While large-format wall hangings in tapestry represent one of the most distinctive European art forms, their size and sensitivity to light means that many of the most impressive examples are rarely on public view. Our conversation will consider current theoretical approaches in art history and literature to tapestry's materiality, the processes by which it was made, and the meanings that tapestries could have for their makers, patrons, and viewers. Space in this special event is limited, and priority will be given to current Harvard University students, faculty, and staff; please click here to register before Friday, 17 October.