Spanish tapestry, possibly 18th century

Spanish tapestry, possibly 18th century.
"The New World".
Measurements: 272 x 200 cm.

Tapestry of colonial theme, represents the caravel Santa Maria, the ship that accompanied Christopher Columbus on his first voyage to America, sailing from the New World back to Spain. A Franciscan, accompanied by some children, bids him farewell. The monk and the vegetation in the foreground indicate that we are in the recently conquered New World, in view of being evangelized by the Spanish missionaries. Other ships are glimpsed in the distance. Surrounding the scene are historical characters inserted in medallions, among angels, cherubs and mermaids, among garlands and floral designs ornamenting the outer band.