The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Tapis \Ta"pis\, n. [F. See Tapestry.]
   Tapestry; formerly, the cover of a council table.
   [1913 Webster]

   On the tapis, or Upon the tapis, on the table, or under
      consideration; as, to lay a motion in Parliament on the
      tapis.
      [1913 Webster]