Lady & the Unicorn2_NEWProbably the only time Morgana was truly happy was when she spent time with Launcelot at Joyous Garde.  He commissioned a set of tapestries for the hall, and charged Morgana with their design – and for this I’ve borrowed ideas from the exquisite Lady and the Unicorn tapestries seen some years ago at the Musee National du Moyen Age in Paris. Morgana incorporates her favourite creature from one of the Otherworlds she visits, the unicorn, along with her pet dog and her pet monkey, all set against a flowery backdrop and incorporating all the senses along with the sixth tapestry depicting Morgana’s ‘only desire’ – Launcelot.  The Lady and the Unicorn tapestries are thought to date back to late in the 15th century, commissioned by a branch of the Le Liste family, but their origins are shrouded in mystery, as is the true meanings of the allegories within each tapestry, which perhaps adds to their appeal. Their colours are as vibrant today as if they are newly woven; they are absolutely beautiful.  And I like to think that somewhere, maybe, Morgana’s tapestries also survive, as a symbol of her one true love!

Lady & the Unicorn_NEW

 

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