For 22 years, the National Trust for Places of Historic Interest or Natural Beauty in the UK has been involved in a massive restoration of 13 large tapestries from the 16th century. The tapestries are now back in their place at Hardwick Hall in Derbyshire, England, one of the first country residences in Europe designed without fortifications.
The tapestries were woven in 1578 for Sir Christopher Hutton, Lord Chancellor of England and favorite of Elizabeth I. The cycle of works is dedicated to the biblical Old Testament character Gideon, the fifth judge of Israel. Gideon led a small Israelite force of 300 soldiers, and during a night attack on the Midianites, he sowed panic in the enemy army. Having won, the Israelites offered Gideon to become their king, but he refused to change the order established by God in favor of the monarchy.
Created tapestries in the Belgian city of Oudenarde. In which workshop it is not known, apparently, a whole team worked on the cycle: experienced weavers worked on complex details, and apprentices took care of the background. After the death of Christopher Hutton, the set of tapestries was purchased by Elizabeth Talbot, Countess of Shrewsbury for £326. It was she who decorated Hardwick Hall with these works, where today a large collection of embroidery is kept.
In 2001, preparations began for the conservation of massive tapestries 6 meters high and 70 meters in total length. Over the past decades, sunlight and accumulated dust have greatly affected the condition of the images. The researchers even found traces of dog urine in the water used to wash the cloth. According to Denise Edwards, a former estate manager, the owners kept Whippets at Hardwick Hall. The restorers carefully cleaned the surface, and then sewed up the holes, restoring the integrity of the compositions. The project was supposed to be completed in 2021, but due to the pandemic, work was somewhat delayed.
