Revered as a national treasure in France, and known as the 15th-century ‘Mona Lisa of the Middle Ages’ The lady and the unicorn tapestry cycle will be making its exclusive appearance in Australia at the Art Gallery of NSW through a generous and exceptional loan from the collection of the Musée de Cluny – Musée national du Moyen Âge in Paris.

The six large tapestries each depict a richly costumed lady flanked by that most mysterious animal, the unicorn, with jewel-like millefleur (‘thousand flowers’) backgrounds. The tapestries present a vivid meditation on earthly pleasures and courtly love. They can also be viewed as an allegory of the five senses – sight, hearing, taste, touch and smell – plus a sixth ‘internal’ sense – heart, desire or will – which was widely known at the time.

With an engaging program of events and activities for all ages, and a specially designed digital experience, a visit to The lady and the unicorn will allow a close encounter with one of the world’s greatest treasures.

This exhibition is made possible with the support of the NSW Government through its tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW.

The Lady and the Unicorn Exhibition
Art Gallery of NSW
10 February – 24 June 2018
www.artgallery.nsw.gov.au