Synopses & Reviews
Blending historical facts and an absorbing account concentrating on the practical aspects of creating such a mammoth piece of art, this survey examines the mysteries behind a centuries-old artifact, the Bayeux Tapestry. Through vividly detailed illustrations impeccably true to the pieces intricately worked characters and elements, this volume offers a thoughtful envisioning of the stories of the women involved in embroidering the piecetheir identities, materials, methods, organization, working conditions, and venues. Incorporating a sketchbook feel that evokes a sense of a work in process, the chronicle pieces together an extensively researched and colorful narrative that helps place the famous embroidery in a plausible context. The authors reconstruction of the final eight feet that are missing from the tapestry will be of particular interest to embroiderers.
Review
"Those who are interested in Medieval Embroidery will enjoy this book. Virtually every page has beautiful illustrations, accompanied by Jan's lovely handwritten text. This gives details of the materials, dyes, stitches and threads used." West Country Embroiderers (May 2, 2011)
Synopsis
Who were the embroiderers of the Bayeux Tapestry? What were their tools, their materials, and how could such a massive project have been designed and organised? These questions and many others have been avoided for so long due to a lack of hard facts, but in this book the author has drawn upon her own experience as an embroiderer and artist to piece together all the clues she could find in the tapestry itself. After extensive research, Jan Messent has compiled a fascinating and colourful account which will help to place this famous embroidery in a plausible context. This new study is essential reading for anyone wishing to know more about The Bayeux Tapestry Embroiderers.
Synopsis
A fascinating and colourful account of this historic tapestry.
About the Author
Jan Messent is a member of the Embroiderers' Guild and the author of several books, including "Celtic, Viking and Anglo-Saxon Embroidery;""Jan Messent's""Knit a Fantasy Story;" and "Jan Messent's Wool 'n' Magic."