I had heard about it...you know, the tapestry that tells the story of William the Conqueror's conquest of England. Never really paid it too much attention. Well, the Budman and I were in for a real treat the morning that we drove into Bayeux, and proceeded to take the tour of this world renowned tapestry.
We didn't expect much as we waltzed up to the building that houses this 1000 year old linen...this piece of history...the "story" of William the Conqueror. Really, what is the big deal? It is just a piece of cloth, right?
First, it is an historical artifact that is over 1000 years old. To look at it, and see the condition it is in (which is fabulous), it is hard to believe its age. The colors are so vivid and the fabric is virtually intact everywhere. Secondly, it is the written record (long before most people could read and write) that describes in painstaking detail the rise of William the Conqueror.
To be exact, it is a 225-foot embroidered scroll stitched in 1067, that depicts in 58 scenes, the epic tale of "Guillaume Le Conquerant". Probably commissioned by the Count of Kent and embroidered by Saxon artisans to be displayed in the newly built Catherale Notre-Dame (the one in Bayeux - see next post). It shows an amazing level of detail not only of the battles, but of everyday life, such as clothes, homes, weapons, ships and lifestyles of the day.
For those of you who might be interested in the story and a look at photos of the tapestry, click on Bayeux Tapestry
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