The tapestry is made up of three panels, fixed to a wooden frame. The Central panel allegorically depicts the City of Lyon receiving the gift of learning from Maj. Gen. Claude Martin, who is in a scarlet coat to the right of the female image "Lyon".

The symbol of the city-a lion is seated in the foreground. Claude Martin is depicted with the directors and teachers of the Institution. The panel also contains an allegory of the arts linked to the industry of Lyon. In the background there is a view of the hill of Fourvière.

The upper band records the year of his birth (1735); his title and name (MAJOR GENERAL MARTIN); his patronage (TO HIS HOMETOWN); and his year of death (1800).

In the center of the lower band is emblazoned (LA MARTINIERE) The left panel depicts scenes of the education of girls. In the upper band, the date (October 22, 1879) corresponds to the first lessons given to girls. The right panel depicts scenes of the education of boys. In the upper band, the date (June 9, 1826) corresponds to that of the first lessons given to boys. The tapestry is recorded in the register of inventory (c. 1857-1991) maintained in the Martin Foundation. The description in the inventory includes most of the furniture still visible in the Committee Room.