Tapestries and interior textiles

The Rijksmuseum’s collection of tapestries and textiles contains over 10,000 objects, dating from the second to the 20th century. These include around 200 tapestries, providing a representative survey of European tapestry art. Examples can be seen of work from all the major workshops. Splendid items include the tapestry showing Cephalus and Procris (c. 1610) from François Spiering’s studio and the Triumph of Fame over Death which was woven in Brussels between 1520 and 1525. In addition, carpets can be seen from Europe and Asia, from the 17th to 19th century, not least the wonderful star-medallion rug from Ushak (Anatolia). The interior textile collection is highly varied and includes wall hangings, as well as wallpaper and gilt leather, bed curtains, upholstery, bedspreads and cushions. Among the superb exhibits is an 18th-century Indian bedspread featuring the arms of Amsterdam, made with chintz: a technique much imitated in the Netherlands whereby cotton is painted by hand in colourful patterns, often of flowers.