The Bayeux Tapestry: Michael Lewis and Dave Musgrove in conversation

One of the most famous artworks of the medieval period, the Bayeux Tapestry is an object full of mystery.
Created in the 11th century, the tapestry tells the story of the Norman conquest of England in 1066 involving William, Duke of Normandy, and Harold, Earl of Wessex, later the last crowned Anglo-Saxon King of England.
In this conversation on the embroidery, Michael Lewis and David Musgrove attempt to unravel its secrets. Why did Harold find himself in Normandy (seemingly) supporting William’s claim to the English throne? Who did King Edward really want to be his heir? And why are the tapestry’s borders full of mythical creatures?
There will also be an opportunity for the audience to have their say and test our experts.
Michael Lewis is Head of Portable Antiquities and Treasure at the British Museum, a member of the Bayeux Tapestry Scientific Committee and an expert on the Bayeux Tapestry. David Musgrove is Content Director at BBC History Magazine. Together, they have written a new book, The Story of the Bayeux Tapestry (Thames & Hudson, April 2021).