David Hockney says moving Bayeux Tapestry to UK is 'Madness'
Thursday, January 15, 2026
David Hockney has described a plan to move the Bayeux Tapestry from France to the UK later this year as "madness" and too much of a risk.
The more than 900 years old embroidery, is due to go on display at the British Museum in London in September.
David Hockney, writing in the Independent, said the "beautiful as well as historically important" masterpiece could be damaged in transit and "will be put in jeopardy if it is moved to London".
In response, British Museum director Nicholas Cullinan said: "While we understand these concerns, the museum has a world-leading conservation and collections team who are experts at handling and caring for this type of material."