First published in France in 1670, Tapisseries du Roy is an oversize folio of engravings illustrating two series of tapestries commissioned by Louis XIV and designed by Charles Le Brun. The engravings by Sébastien LeClerc show the rich symbolism and details of the tapestries that were based on mythological allegories on the themes of the four elements and the seasons. To get us all inspired by the prospect of spring as this winter drags on, we’ve selected some images from Le Printemps section of the text to show here.
Engraved Title page for the four seasons section of text 
Full page engraving show Venus and Mars sitting on cloud; King Louis XIV is depicted in roundel in centre; main figures are surrounded by spring symbolism. 
Unique engraved title page for Les Printemps 
Contemporary vellum binding with gold tooling; book is approximately 40 cm in height.
Call number: Tapisseries du roy, ou sont representez les quatre elemens et les quatre saisons : avec les devises qui les accompagnent, et leur explication. A Paris : Chez Sebastien Mabre-Cramoisy, Imprimeur du Roy rue Saint Jacques, aux Cicognes, MDCLXXIX [1679].
U of T Libraries catalogue link: UW 1679 F45 large fol.
John W. Graham Library news 