The Bayeux Tapestry

In the small town of Bayeux in Normandy, in a museum specially devised to hold this single object, is a strip of linen nearly a thousand years old.

Nothing remotely like the Bayeux Tapestry exists anywhere else. In a series of vivid scenes, with a running explanatory text in Latin, the Tapestry relates the invasion of England by William of Normandy and his victory at the Battle of Hastings in 1066. 

This book makes it accessible as never before and allows us to appreciate how totally absorbing it is.

The Tapestry is reproduced in full colour, with captions on a fold-out page for easy reference. A second reproduction of the Tapestry in black and white has a detailed accompanying commentary. Sir David Wilson, former Director of the British Museum, provides an up-to-date summary of the historical evidence, explains each episode and covers related topics such as the costumes, armour, ships, buildings and customs.

As a social document the Tapestry is of incalculable value. As a work of art it is the sole survivor of a form which may once have been wide-spread, the wall-hanging commemorating the deeds of a great man.