Michael Linton's Bayeux Tapestry: 1066 - A Medieval Mosaic and Puzzles

22 years of work for viewing

News Article Details

• Publication: Timaru Herald
• Date: 13-11-1997

Description

First showing — Michael Linton with one of the 40,000 design wheels used to make his 35-metre metal-based mosaic. He began the Bayeux Tapestry 22 years ago and predicts he will have it finished within the next six to eight months.

Beside the 40 paintings in the Alpine Energy Art Awards last night was a unique metal mosaic depicting one of the world's greatest art treasures.

Geraldine resident Michael Linton began the mosaic of the Bayeux Tapestry 22 years ago and said the awards ceremony was a good opportunity to let people appraise the work.

There were 19 panels used to depict the original tapestry and Mr Linton's half-size replica will stretch 35 metres once completed.

The finished work comprised of 1.5 million pieces of metal teeth broken off the design wheels of knitting machines. They were specially glued to backing boards and painstakingly hand painted before being coated with polyurethane.

"I’ve worked on it in fits and starts over the years but should be able to finish it within the next six to eight months," he said.

The original Bayeux Tapestry depicted the Norman invasion of England in 1066.

"My interest came from brass rubbings and spread into heraldic work. I can't see myself ever starting another project like this," said 43-year-old Mr Linton.

When Tekau knitwear vacated the building now used by the Timaru Herald Mr Linton picked up 40,000 of the design wheels.

With all the mosaics laid on boards he was hard pressed to find any of the broken 'teeth' to photograph yesterday.

"There's been a lot of interest shown in the mosaics I've made over the years, including from overseas visitors," Mr Linton said.

The main work room at his knitting business would just have the 35-metre wall space required to mount the 19 panels.