The British Museum has prohibited visitors from photographing the Bayeux Tapestry in order to keep crowds moving through an unprecedented London exhibition, a spokesperson confirmed Monday.
Enthusiastic visitors have flocked to view the nearly 1,000-year-old artwork since the sold-out exhibition opened earlier this month.
“There has been enormous interest in viewing the tapestry, and our priority is to ensure that all visitors have the best experience possible,” a spokesperson said in a statement.
“In order to do this, we have made the decision to restrict photography while people are moving along the length of the tapestry.”
The 11th-century masterpiece offers a vivid window into life in England both before and after the invasion by William the Conqueror’s Norman army.
The unprecedented loan from France, the result of years of diplomacy and set to last until next July, has been hailed as a symbol of renewed cross-Channel ties following the rancour of Brexit.
Depicting the 1066 Battle of Hastings, the 70-metre-long tapestry has shadowy origins. It is widely thought to have been made in England almost 1,000 years ago before being transferred to Bayeux in France.
Under the visitors’ guidance section on the British Museum’s website, it states that sightseers move through the exhibition via a one-way system for a visit lasting approximately 40 minutes.
“Drawing or sketching are not permitted. Photography is not permitted,” it adds.
Photography had initially been allowed, but that decision was reversed when queues began to build up as visitors lingered. It was not immediately clear when the ban went into effect.
In what is believed to be its first time travelling outside France, the tapestry depicting 627 figures and more than 700 animals has been laid flat in a raised glass cabinet. In its home in Bayeux, northwestern France, it is displayed hanging vertically.
Animations projected on the wall in London accompany the tapestry, zooming in on details and key events in the artwork, which is replete with gore and drama.
Tickets to the exhibition are sold out until December 31, with a second tranche for viewings until July 11 due to go on sale on October 21.
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