Tapecarias_de_pastrana
: Depicts the arrival of the Portuguese fleet and King Afonso V alongside his son, Prince João II.
: They feature detailed representations of full plate armor, brigandines, and the adarga (a heart-shaped shield adopted from Moorish cavalry).
: While woven in Flanders, the cartoons (preparatory designs) are attributed to Portuguese court painter Nuno Gonçalves . The Four Narratives tapecarias_de_pastrana
: Commemorates the surrender of Tangier, which occurred without a direct battle after the citizens fled upon hearing of Asilah's fall. Artistic and Military Significance
: Shows the static field and troop movements as the Portuguese forces encircle the city walls. : Depicts the arrival of the Portuguese fleet
: Each of the four cloths measures approximately 11 meters long and 4 meters tall (36 by 13 feet) and is made of wool and silk.
It remains a mystery how these Portuguese royal commissions ended up in Spain. Hypotheses include them being war booty from the Battle of Toro or a gift to Cardinal Mendoza. They have been held at the in Spain since 1664, following a donation by the Mendoza family. After centuries of natural damage and dirt, the set underwent a major restoration and has since been featured in international exhibitions, including a prominent tour at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.. lisboa: tapeçarias de pastrana - Endless Mile The Four Narratives : Commemorates the surrender of
: Illustrates the dynamic invasion of the city through breaches in the walls caused by artillery.