03.28.08
Decorate Like A King (or Queen)
Everyone knows that part of the majesty of medieval castles comes from the stately stone walls and the enormous tapestries that were hung on those walls. There is some evidence that shows the tapestries helped to insulate the cold stone castle walls, but there is plenty of proof that these medieval woven wall hangings were used for artistic expression, and therefore…castle decor.
There was very little in the way of artistic expression during the Dark Ages of Europe. It is called the Dark Ages for a reason. Very little historical data has been found from this time period, unless it had to do with war or the church. One way an artist was able to express themselves was through knight coat of arms weavings. The artisans were hired by royalty to have their family’s coat of arms woven into tapestry form. These coat of arms have popped up all over historical sites in Europe and truly show the struggle of the artist during the Dark Ages.
