The Diversion of the Euphrates from The Story of Cyrus
c. 1670
Medium
Wool and silk, slit and single interlocking tapestry weave Warp: Count: 8 warps per cm; wool: S-ply of three Z-spun elements; diameters: 0.6–1.0 mm Weft: Count: varies from 19 to 44 wefts per cm; wool: S-ply of two Z-spun elements; diameters: 0.3–1.5 mm; silk: pairs of S-ply of two Z-twisted elements; diameters: 0.15–0.5 mm
Dimensions
325.4 × 404.8 cm (128 1/8 × 159 3/8 in.)
Classification
weaving - tapestry
Department
Textiles
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
27849
Art Historical Context
Behold *The Diversion of thehrates from The Story of Cyrus*, a magnificent tapestry woven in the workshop of Flemish artist Gillis Ydens 1670. This monumental piece (325.4 × 404.8 cm) captures a dramatic episode from the legend of Cyrus the Great, ancient Persian conqueror who, according to Herodotus, diverted the Euphrates to enable his army's stealthy entry into Babylon in 539 BCE. Produced during the Baroque era, it reflects the era's fascination with grand historical narratives, blending vivid storytelling with opulent craftsmanship. Crafted in wool and silk using slit and single interloc...