Moving the Bayeux Tapestry

September 24 2025

Posted by Adam Busiakiewicz:

Earlier this summer it was announced during President Macron's State visit to the UK that The British Museum would be borrowing the famous Bayeux Tapestry for a special exhibition opening in September 2026. There have been growing concerns in both the French art press (1) (2) and some commentators in the UK (1) that the tapestry's unique conservation considerations have been overridden for political purposes and not been given adequate thought.

Yesterday the French Ministry of Culture's website published preliminary reports into the questions of how the UNESCO historical monument (as it is designated) will be moved, including outlines for a new study commissioned by the French state. In other words, there's a long way to go to establish how movement and vibrations will affect this ancient textile.

More news as and when it appears.

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