The Art of Edgewater Tapestry Looms

Artist Lorentz Kleiser was a key figure in reviving the art of tapestry weaving. He founded Edgewater Tapestry Looms. The company opened in Edgewater, New Jersey, in 1913. (Kleiser had made an earlier effort at starting a weaving business.) Kleiser’s tapestries served as wall hangings for homes and public buildings. He drew inspiration and techniques from the best examples from the past. His designs often featured subjects from European historic tapestries. Kleiser employed a studio of weavers and other artisans. They hand wove the works on upright looms. The Great Depression hampered business. Edgewater closed in 1933.

The Stark Museum of Art presents this exhibit of tapestries to coordinate with A Noble Pastime. The art form of tapestry thrived during the time period of A Noble Pastime. The American revival of tapestries then drew inspiration from European art. The subject of hunting found expression in a Kleiser weaving. He used other related themes such as the leisure activities of the nobility and the outdoors. The seasons, war, and classical legends are other connections.