Saturday, Mar. 03, 1923

A Brightness from the Past

"Six of the rarest tapestries of Medieval France, woven bits from a dimming past, but bright themselves despite their centuries of age," are now in the possession of John D. Rockefeller, Jr., having cost him $1,100,000.

Unless prevented by the French Government they will soon be hung on the walls of Mr. Rockefeller's home, 4 West 54th Street, Manhattan. The French press is indignant.

The six glorious relics of the weaver's art are series depicting the "Hunt for the Unicorn," symbol of chastity and immortality. Since 1450 the unicorn has adorned the Castle of Verteuil, home of the Counts of La Rochefoucauld.

The series differs from the "Lady and the Unicorn" in that the unicorn, an animal of dazzling whiteness, is the central figure. He ranges through forests or millefleur backgrounds, followed by hunters and eager dogs.

The tapestries were exhibited in the Anderson Galleries last November. They returned to Verteuil. Mr. Rockefeller bought them from the present Rochefoucauld, who, the French claim, promised to keep his treasures in France.

All art magazines will carry full details.