Delve into the life and work of Pieter Van Verren, a tapestry entrepreneur from seventeenth-century Oudenaarde. With his craftsmanship and sharp business acumen, he helped the town grow into an international hub for tapestry production. This exhibition brings authentic tapestries back to their town of origin, complemented by unique archival documents, letters and paintings. At the same time, you will discover how surprisingly recognisable the entrepreneurial spirit of that era remains today.
Pieter Van Verren
The seventeenth century was a golden age for Oudenaarde as an international center for tapestry production, driven by an extensive network of makers and traders. At the heart of this network stood Pieter Van Verren (1640–1709). Born into a respected tapestry-making family, he was a versatile entrepreneur who combined various roles: tapestry designer, employer, merchant and city councillor. He commissioned tapestries to be produced in and around Oudenaarde, coordinated collaborations with artists and weavers, and sold his tapestries far beyond the city to nobles, wealthy citizens, clergy and high-ranking military officers.
Simon II de Pape (1623-1677), Portrait of Pieter Van Verren, 1666, private collection
A return to his hometown
Discover the entrepreneurial spirit of the era through the in-depth research of Dr Ingrid De Meûter, former curator of the national tapestry collection at the Royal Museums of Art and History. Her research enabled her to link several tapestries directly to the Van Verren workshop.
These tapestries are returning to their hometown of Oudenaarde for the first time. Remarkable works of art are presented alongside authentic sources from the city archives: handwritten letters, invoices and a journal reveal how Van Verren’s business operated on a day-to-day basis. Together with paintings by pattern designers and other remarkable objects, these sources bring the story behind the tapestries to life. You will discover how correspondence, collaboration and flexibility were key to his success. At the same time, you will gain rare insight into the rich craft tradition and the strategic role of Oudenaarde as a prominent production center.
Workshop of Pieter Van Verren, The Spectacle Seller, after 1698, Grand Curtius, Ville de Liège
Entrepreneurship today
This story does not end in the seventeenth century. The exhibition shows how the spirit of enterprise is still very much alive today. Contemporary local entrepreneurs share many of the characteristics that defined Van Verren’s approach to business. Networking, innovation and perseverance form a common thread linking past and present. The story of this enterprising master is therefore not only a glimpse into the past, but also a recognizable and inspiring perspective for entrepreneurs today.
From the weaving workshops in Mater and Schorisse to the salons of European nobility, experience the power of entrepreneurship, art and identity in a city where textile art once enjoyed international renown. Discover how that history continues to live on today.