Old World European Swags are characterized by impressive fabrics, trims, layers, and ornamentation. Gold is a favorite color especially when paired with jewel tones. Damask patterns, floral tapestries, and formal swirls are the most popular motifs in Old World draperies. Fabrics are often tapestries or embroidered materials. Silk usually has a pattern. Solid silk is usually only an accent.
Old World Euroepan Swags differ from classical (Roman Empire) and neo-classical (colonial and other times) swags in that their size and proportions are not highly regular. European swags are often deeper and larger. As in this example, swags of different sizes may be made of different fabrics. Classical swags are typically slightly wider than they are tall, symmetrical, with 5-7 folds, made with odd numbers of sections, and no more than two layers. French swags, in particular depart furthest from classical Roman swag proportions and shapes.
Our designer created this treatment to appear in a romantic Italian style featuring a thick tapestry fabric similar to Italian Renaissance fabrics in a muted sangria red and warm gold in oversized swags wtih center ornament. The accent fabric is burgundy velvet. Tapered panels finish the look with simple shape and proportion of the top making the overall look a simplified and relaxed version of European draperies.
