Henry VIII's tapestries revealed
Starts: 10 April 2009
Finishes: 31 October 2010
Location
Hampton Court Palace
East Molesey
Surrey
KT8 9AU
Telephone: +44 0844 482 7777
Website: http://www.hrp.org.uk/HamptonCourtPalace
E-mail: mailto:hamptoncourt@hrp.org.uk
Description
Henry VIII's tapestry in a new light
Historic Royal Palaces wanted to discover how the tapestries would have looked when Henry first set eyes on them over 500 years ago. Knowing they have faded as a result of centuries of light exposure, but how much have the colours changed?
To answer this question, conservation scientists from Historic Royal Palaces have worked with the University of Manchester for nearly seven years. This research has resulted in an animated projection that produces a virtual colour reconstruction of one of Henry VIII's tapestries. During the six-minute show the tapestry is gradually flooded with colour until it appears as it would have done when new.
There is no danger of the projected light further damaging the tapestry as the show only takes place five times a day and additional blinds have been fitted in the windows of the room. A commentary by Sir Trevor McDonald explores the history of this fabulous object and the conservation work that goes into its care.
For more information visit the Hampton Court Palace website.