Restored Tapestries on Display at Square 500

Conservator Elitsa Tsvetkova, alongside her team, has completed an intensive year-long restoration of Western European tapestries from the National Gallery's collection. The restored textiles, now on display at the Square 500 Gallery until August 2025, showcase the intricate work required to preserve these historical pieces, CE Report quotes BTA

Tsvetkova explained that the restoration process involved dusting, cleaning with foam, and stretching the tapestries to repair uneven edges and frayed threads. Special attention was paid to preserving the tapestries' original colors, which had faded over time. Some pieces, like the French tapestries from the Royal Manufacture of Aubusson, required additional support due to their delicate wool and silk fibers.

Art historian Vesela Radoeva emphasized the historical and artistic significance of these tapestries, noting they once symbolized noble power. The exhibition includes rare 16th-18th century pieces, including works from the Royal Manufactory of Beauvais, featuring scenes from La Fontaine's fables.

The tapestries, part of the National Gallery's unique collection, are an exceptional display of craftsmanship, offering insight into the rich history of textile art in Europe.