Episodes in the Story of the Vengeance of Our Lord

Art Historical Context

This monumental South Netherlandish tapestry *Episodes in the Story the Vengeance of Our*, dates to around 1460–70 and measures an impressive 165 by 336 inches—large enough to adorn an entire cathedral wall. Created by an unknown artist in the weaving centers of Flanders, it captures dramatic vignettes from a medieval religious narrative, featuring dynamic scenes with women, horses, and soldiers. Tapestries like this were prized luxury goods, commissioned by nobility or clergy to insulate grand halls while vividly retelling sacred stories to largely illiterate audiences. Woven on a wool warp with wool wefts and subtle silk accents for highlights, the work exemplifies the haute lisse (high-warp) technique perfected in the southern Netherlands during the late Middle Ages. This labor-intensive process, often involving teams of weavers, allowed for intricate details and rich colors that have endured centuries. Its survival speaks to the era's artistic innovation, as Flemish workshops dominated Europe's tapestry trade, blending piety with opulent display. Acquired by The Metropolitan Museum Art through the Rogers Fund in 1909, this piece offers a window into 15th-century devotion and craftsmanship, inviting visitors to ponder the fervor of its biblical vengeance theme amid clashing figures and galloping steeds.