TitleTapestry, Fragments du voyage de LaperouseDate1987-1992About this objectCommissioned for the Australian-French bicentenary, this large tapestry (3m × 2m) was designed by Australian artist John Winch and woven in the French tapestry town of Aubusson. It features nine panels depicting relics from the Lapérouse expedition. John Winch personally oversaw the dyeing process in Aubusson to match his design, and the work was finally brought to Sydney after complex negotiations.Object No.92.1Physical descriptionThe John Winch Tapestry measures approximately 3m in height and 2m in width and consists of nine woven panels, each depicting symbolic imagery related to the Lapérouse expedition. It features an earthy, subtle colour palette achieved through hand-dyed yarns, with Winch spending two months in Aubusson supervising the dyeing process. The tapestry was created using traditional Aubusson low-warp loom techniques, characteristic of the craft recognised by UNESCO for its cultural heritage significance.CreatorWinch, JohnDimensionsH: 680 mm W: 600 mmPlace madeAubusson, FranceMaterialCanvasLeatherTurinePaintSourceLa Perouse MuseumCredit linePresented by the Consul-General of France, Michel Legras, 15 October 1992Acquisition date1992On displayNoTypeMuseum objectsOrganisations (Detailed entries)La Perouse Museum (La Perouse, N.S.W.)ThemesEuropean arrivals
Winch, John, Tapestry, Fragments du voyage de Laperouse (1987-1992). Randwick City Council, accessed 15/03/2026, https://ourstory.randwick.nsw.gov.au/nodes/view/12353
