Bayeux Tapestry might be loaned by France to go on display in England
ONE of the most famous historical artworks in Europe, the Bayeux Tapestry, is set to be shown in the UK.
It is understood that French President Emmanuel Macron made the offer and he and Prime Minister Theresa May will discuss bringing the tapestry, which depicts the Norman William the Conqueror’s decisive defeat of King Harold at the Battle of Hastings in 1066, to the UK when they meet today.
The location for the display is not thought to have been decided and it could take five years before it reaches British shores.
A spokesman for Mr Macron has said it will definitely not be in the UK before 2020. It is understood restoration work is necessary before it is moved from its home in the Bayeux Museum in Normandy.
At present there appears to be no move to have the tapestry displayed north of the border.
The National Museums of Scotland had no comment to make, beyond saying it was glad it was to be shown in the UK.
The British Museum would be “honoured and delighted” to display the Bayeux Tapestry if it comes to the UK, its director has said.
Hartwig Fischer said: “This would be a major loan, probably the most significant ever from France to the UK.
“It is a gesture of extraordinary generosity and proof of the deep ties that link our countries.”
The 230ft long tapestry was probably embroidered in the 1070s and has never left France before.