The Bayeux Tapestry is a unique historical record, relating the events leading up to the Norman invasion of England, and culminating in the Battle of Hastings in 1066 between the armies of Harold, King of England, and William, Duke of Normandy. It is a primary source of historical information for the period and has been remarkably well preserved, having had various escapes from destruction on several occasions throughout its nine-hundred year history.

The original tapestry is about 68 metres (224 feet) long by 50cm (20) high and is the only masterpiece of its kind in the world. It is generally thought that the tapestry was made in the south of England before 1082, possibly either at Canterbury or Winchester, and thereafter transferred to Bayeux in Normandy, home of Williams half-brother, Odon de Conteville. The tapestry is in fact embroidery on a linen backcloth using wools of various colours. In recent years, the tapestry has been conserved and housed in a new purpose-built Museum at Bayeux.

This section of the tapestry depicts Duke William and his army at the French coast, preparing to cross the English Channel on the night of 27th September 1066; the land is represented by a bumpy line, which gives way to a more wavy line at the coast depicting the sea. The horses are in the ship with the sailors, and although the ship has oar-holes, these are not used, as there is a good wind for the sails. The Latin text reads HIC WILLELM DUX IN MAGNO NAVIGO (MARE), which translates, Here Duke William in a great ship crossed the sea
This beautiful tapestry is woven on a jacquard loom by skilled weavers, keeping alive the centuries old tradition of tapestry manufacturing from generation to generation. This tapestry is fully lined incorporating a sleeve along the top for hanging with a Fleur de Lys hanging rod. Alternatively, this tapestry can be hung with a wooden batten which is a concealed method of hanging.

Features

Tapestry Type           Loom Woven
Loom Woven            In France
Composition            80% cotton, 16% viscose, 4% polyester

Dimensions

49 x 123 cm

74 x 187 cm