Bayeux Tapestry

A replica of the Bayeux Tapestry, one of the earliest examples of European embroidery. The original was made in the 11th century, on a strip of linen about 50 cm wide. There are 72 scenes relating to the Norman conquest of England in 1066, embroidered in eight colours.

Duke William of Normandy (later William I the Conqueror) is depicted in this scene in the Bayeux Tapestry, receiving news of Harold II of England. The Tapestry approaches the story of the Norman Conquest of England from the Norman perspective, and thus it is not possible to be certain that the events it shows really took place, such as the oath sworn by Harold to William, or the arrow through Harold's eye, which killed him.

Linen hanging made about 1067-70 that gives a vivid pictorial record of the invasion of England by William I (the Conqueror) in 1066. It is an embroidery rather than a true tapestry, sewn with woollen threads in eight visibly different colours. The hanging is 70 m/231 ft long and 50 cm/20 in wide, and contains 72 separate scenes with descriptive wording in Latin. It is exhibited at the museum of Bayeux in Normandy, France.