David Hockney, one of Britain's most celebrated painters, has intervened to oppose plans to bring the Bayeux Tapestry to the UK, warning that the move could cause irreparable damage to the fragile 11th-century artefact.
Writing exclusively in The Independent, Hockney described the proposal as 'madness' and 'too big a risk to take', arguing that the tapestry has survived political upheaval and wars for nearly a millennium but now faces an 'unnecessary conservation ordeal'. He highlighted risks from changes in temperature, humidity, and light exposure, which could lead to fibre contraction, colour fading, or tearing of the linen backing.
The 70-metre-long relic, which depicts the Norman conquest of England in 1066, is set to be loaned from Bayeux in Normandy to the British Museum for a nine-month exhibition. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hailed it as a 'unique treasure', and the UK government has insured it for £800m. The loan, part of a cultural exchange with French museums, marks the first time the tapestry has left France since it was created.
Hockney questioned the motivation behind the move, suggesting the British Museum wants to 'boast of numbers of visitors'. He called for a proper debate on the decision. His warning follows a petition signed by over 40,000 people in August opposing the loan, with art historian Didier Rykner also voicing concerns. The British Museum has said its conservation team is experienced in handling such materials and is working with French colleagues on the display.
