Resplendence of the Spanish Monarchy: Renaissance Tapestries and Armor from the Patrimonio Nacional

In his introduction to this extravagantly illustrated volume, Spanish historian Ortiz describes court life in 16th-century Spain, the exquisite tapestries produced then and the militaristic mindset that increased demand for ceremonial, often purely symbolic armor. Carretero, curator of tapestries at Spain's Patrimonio Nacional, introduces seven series of lush tapestries woven in Brussels workshops, most crafted of gold, silver, silk and wool. Sacred, historical and mythological themes blend in the tapestries: the Apocalypse series is based on Revelations, the Spheres set depicts Roman gods, and the 12 Conquest of Tunis hangings commemorate an expedition against the Turks. Godoy, curator of arms and armor at Geneva's Musee d'Art et d'Histoire, presents ornate battle gear for horses and men alike, embossed parade armor and weaponry. The more than 150 color illustrations include details and distance shots, allowing as complete an experience of each piece as readers can expect outside a museum.

The sumptuous tapestries and handsome armor commissioned or acquired by the 16th-century monarchs Charles V and Philip II are among the least sufficiently esteemed treasures of Spain. This beautifully illustrated exhibition catalog of material drawn from the Patrimonio Nacional should help redress this dereliction and stimulate renewed interest in these master works of Renaissance art. The volume's text provides an introductory overview of the dynastic and historical setting and catalog entries for the individual objects. Unfortunately, the competent but narrow treatment of the tapestries offers little more than the factual essentials. The discussion of the armor more fully documents and describes the objects. The formal and iconographic diversity of these well-selected examples, the excellence of the illustrations, and the core of useful information amply justify the acquisition of this volume by larger public libraries and art collections. - Robert Cahn, Fashion Inst. of Technology, New York