ATELIERS DE LA MARCHE (FELLETIN) Important, original and rare wool and silk tapestry depicting a duck hunting scene by Henri IV at the Château de la Motte (near Lyon). The border is decorated with rows of fruit, flowers and foliage in stylised garlands. Early 17th century. 320 x 293 cm Oxidation and natural wear, scratches, small accident at the bottom. Braids and frame with traces of wear. The Château de la Motte, south of Lyon, on the border between the Dauphiné and Lyonnais regions, occupies an elevation (beginning of construction in the 15th century, end of construction in the 16th century); its original owner was Jean de Villeneuve; the château is identified by the pond in front of the building. In 1600, Marie de Médicis, who was to marry Henri IV on 17 December 1600, stayed here, attended mass at the Château and dined there. During this period, the royal couple stayed there for hunting parties, including the one depicted in this tapestry panel. Henri IV can be seen on the left, identified by his hat and beard. He is surrounded by hunters, remarkably drawn foliage, an English cocker spaniel at the bottom and the Château de la Motte in the background, with its pond and ducks. Note the frame of the water outlet valve used to drain the pond.) Concerning the method of hunting ducks or waterfowl: Decoys, which are decisive hunting aids for attracting wild ducks, are commonly used for ducks, generally on ponds or puddles. One of the duck's legs is tied with a fairly long thread so that it can swim and appear free. This will act as bait and attract wild ducks. Hunters could then shoot them with their rifles (shown in this panel). Nowadays, the modern version is to hunt with wooden or plastic decoys (which are much cheaper and easier than maintaining live ducks). Expert: Frank Kassapian