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The loan of this famous 11th-century textile artwork, announced by both the French and British governments, forms part of the specific framework of the future Bayeux Tapestry Museum project. This provides a unique opportunity, as the work must be removed from its current display case while the building is being renovated. It will then be packaged and moved to storage for the duration of the two-year project. Following numerous questions from the public about the possibility of moving and transporting the Bayeux Tapestry, we would like to provide some clarification and transparency:
Since the beginning of the new museum project in 2013, we have been working with the Ministry of Culture (the actual owner of the Bayeux Tapestry) to improve our understanding of the work’s material composition and to develop a new display method that will ensure better conservation.
Together, we have developed engineering solutions for its delicate handling, particularly for moving it from the vertical position in which it has been displayed since its first public exhibition in 1842 to a horizontal position for its reinstallation in the new setting.
(Image: RSHP – the new display method for the Bayeux Tapestry in 2027 involves exhibiting it on an inclined stand that can be positioned horizontally for study or restoration work.)
In early April 2025, a simulation of the removal of the Tapestry from its technical room enabled each step of the actual future move to be anticipated. This included secure removal, installation on a transport screen and transportation to a temporary storage facility. All scenarios were played out under real conditions.
Teams from the Normandy Regional Cultural Affairs Department — assisted by restorers, heritage curators, and art transport professionals — handled a faithful facsimile of the original work rather than the original itself. This allowed them to test and validate safety protocols and identify sensitive points such as tight turns, temperature changes, and vibrations associated with transport.
The British Museum in London, which will display the Bayeux Tapestry for a major exhibition from September 2026 to June 2027, has a highly qualified and experienced conservation and collections management team specialising in this type of artwork. These British experts will collaborate closely with their French counterparts to ensure the Bayeux Tapestry’s safety and will undoubtedly adhere to the same standards set by French heritage services for caring for this ancient and delicate artefact.
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