Gobelins

Gobelins, the name of a family of dyers, who in the 15th century established themselves in the Faubourg St Marcel, Paris. In the following century they added to their dyeworks a tapestry manufacture. In 1662 the establishments were purchased by Colbert, Louis XIV.'s minister, and reorganised as royal upholstery works, celebrated painters, such as Le Brun and Vouet, being employed to furnish designs. From the year 1697 the tapestry manufacture alone was carried on, the product of the looms being known by the name of Gobelins. The works were closed during the Revolution and down to the restoration of the Bourbons, but since that time they have again been in active operation. A second establishment for the manufacture of Gobelins, likewise supported by the state, exists at Beauvais. For other textiles of a similar description, see TAPESTRY.