1962 Bayeux Tapestry Poster, Embroidery of the Norman Conquest of England, France, well worn, travel wall art decor

This is an original but well worn 1962 travel poster of the Bayeux Tapestry. It shows a mounted Norman knight with a kite shield striking a Saxon axeman with an oval shield with his sword. The strap line suggests it's the tapestry from the age of Queen Matilda.
The aging is very apparent, but only adds to the authenticity and ought to frame up very well. It's good wear!
Printed for: The French Government
Photo: Bandy
Printer Gaston Maillet & Cie, Paris
Dimensions: 39 in x 24.5 in (98 cm x 62 cm)
Condition: pinholes, rough edges, many aging marks, repairs to edge tears, corner paper loss, see photos.

The Bayeux Tapestry is an embroidered cloth nearly 70 metres (230 feet) long and 50 centimetres (20 inches) tall that depicts the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, led by William, Duke of Normandy challenging Harold II, King of England, and culminating in the Battle of Hastings. It is thought to date to the 11th century, within a few years of the battle. Now widely accepted to have been made in England, perhaps as a gift for William, it tells the story from the point of view of the conquering Normans and for centuries has been preserved in Normandy.

The cloth consists of 58 scenes, many with Latin tituli, embroidered on linen with coloured woollen yarns. It is likely that it was commissioned by Bishop Odo of Bayeux, William's maternal half-brother, and made for him in England in the 1070s. In 1729, the hanging was rediscovered by scholars at a time when it was being displayed annually in Bayeux Cathedral. The tapestry is now exhibited at the Musée de la Tapisserie de Bayeux in Bayeux, Normandy, France. The designs on the Bayeux Tapestry are embroidered rather than in a tapestry weave, so it does not meet narrower definitions of a tapestry. Nevertheless, it has always been referred to as a tapestry until recent years when the name "Bayeux Embroidery" has gained ground among certain art historians. It can be seen as a rare example of secular Romanesque art.

Because of the age of these posters, there are areas of wear and tear, particularly on the edges. I have done my best to take photos where they are torn or stained. The good news is that when framed, the tears press up well against glass, and edges can be hidden by mats. Any wear picked up from years are part of the vintage charm.

When framed these colourful and detailed posters, with vibrant colours can become a centre piece for any room, to remind us of a simpler time.

These posters are sent as unframed. They will be delivered in a cardboard tube for protection.

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