probably flemish tapestry, late 17th or early 18th century Bear hunting Woven in wool and silk, depicting a vast landscape animated by animals and a bear-hunting scene; missing borders, wear and restorations Dimensions: 310 x 482 cm (122 x 189 ¾ in.) A wool and silk Flemish tapestry, late 17th or early 18th century This large tapestry presents a vast landscape animated by animals and a bear-hunting scene. The bear hunt occupies the right-hand side of the composition, where a troop of Oriental hunters on horseback is standing. One of the riders is brandishing his sword to slaughter a bear, while a second is being attacked. The dynamic poses of the horses and men convey the intensity of the scene. The brown and reddish tones that characterise the group contrast with the cold tones of the landscape. The composition is enlivened by the play of resonance, creating a sound effect: touches of red are repeated in the plumage of the birds and flowers in the foreground. The harmonious nature of the flora and fauna and the peacefulness of the hamlet in the background contrast with the action taking place there.