Export of rare tapestry put on hold in Britain

An export bar was placed Thursday on a rare tapestry dating from the 1690s.

Culture Minister Matt Hancock has placed the temporary export bar on the tapestry by Michael Mazarind in a last ditch effort to stop it being exported from Britain.

The tapestry is at risk of being exported from Britain unless a buyer can be found to match the asking price of 67,500 pounds (82,762.41 U.S.dollars).

The work is the only surviving tapestry to feature Mazarind's workshop mark. Little is known of his workshop, but it is believed he was based in Portugal Street, London, between 1696 and 1702. Mazarind was relatively unknown, but is said to have connections to John Vanderbank, the famous Soho-based weaver.

The tapestry includes small groups of oriental figures, buildings, exotic creatures and plants. This combination of elements was one of the most popular decorative fashions of the period.

Hancock said: "This intricate design provides us with a unique opportunity to explore the tapestry workshops of 1600s London. I hope we are able to keep it in the country so we can learn more about our nation's textile industry, and of the decorative fashions of the time."

The decision to defer the export licence follows a recommendation by the Reviewing Committee on the Export of Works of Art and Objects of Cultural Interest (RCEWA), administered by The Arts Council. The committee made its recommendation on the grounds of significance for the study of Mazarind's work, English tapestry of the period, and London's history. Endit