Tapestries from the Burrell Collection

de Elizabeth A. H. Cleland, Lorraine Karafel

The magnificent collection of some 200 European, mainly medieval, tapestries acquired by Glasgow shipping magnate Sir William Burrell (1861-1958) is one of the largest and most important tapestry collections in the world. Although attempts to catalogue them have been made in the past, most have never been published and are therefore little known. The result of a three-year research project, this highly illustrated scholarly catalogue provides full details of place and date of production, materials and technique, provenance and exhibition history. Each entry also contains a detailed description of subject matter and interpretation of the iconography, including, where relevant, discussion of linked individual tapestries or series of associated tapestries in other locations. Any past or new theories about iconography and design are cited, with references. A discussion of context, such as noteworthy details about the patron or the production and information about related tapes- tries reusing the same cartoon in other locations, is included together with past and new research about makers and usage. Each tapestry entry is illustrated with a full colour image plus details and comparative illustrations where appropriate. The catalogue is prefaced by an essay on Burrell as a collector of tapestries and another on the history of the maintenance and care of tapestries. Appendices pro- vide details of the dealers from whom Burrell bought the tapestries and on other noted collectors. An illustrated conservation essay, a glossary, a full bibliography and an index complete the volume. The resulting work provides a record of a major collection which will become a benchmark for future research and interpretation of tapestries of the period.