Patrick, this is fun, and is intended in the spirit of the thing.
Here is a quote from the dreaded Wikipedia:
Since the earliest known written reference to the tapestry in a 1476 inventory of Bayeux Cathedral, its origins have been the subject of much speculation and controversy.
French legend maintained the tapestry was commissioned and created by Queen Matilda, William the Conqueror's wife, and her ladies-in-waiting. Indeed, in France it is occasionally known as "La Tapisserie de la Reine Mathilde" (Tapestry of Queen Matilda). However, scholarly analysis in the 20th century shows it probably was commissioned by William's half brother, Bishop Odo. The reasons for the Odo commission theory include: 1) three of the bishop's followers mentioned in Domesday Book appear on the tapestry; 2) it was found in Bayeux Cathedral, built by Odo; and 3) it may have been commissioned at the same time as the cathedral's construction in the 1070s, possibly completed by 1077 in time for display on the cathedral's dedication.
Assuming Odo commissioned the tapestry, it was probably designed and constructed in England by Anglo-Saxon artists given that Odo's main power base was in Kent, the Latin text contains hints of Anglo Saxon, other embroideries originate from England at this time, and the vegetable dyes can be found in cloth traditionally woven there.[1] [2] [3] Assuming this was the case, the actual physical work of stitching was most likely undertaken by skilled seamsters. Anglo-Saxon needlework, or Opus Anglicanum was famous across Europe.
I can't imagine the monks saying "guys, Vespers in ten minutes, then come see the fabulous new silk embrodary threads that came in today."
Remember, the Church was mega-powerful and wealthy, so they could job it out to whoever they wanted. Bishops were as powerful as kings back when the Tapestry was created.
And time and again, copiests literally copied whatever was put in front of them. Each iteration usually created some errors, compounded over time. Someone doesnt have to read to copy letters such as you see on the tapestry, and the cartoons (or whatever the patterns are called) were simply executed carefully by whoever was charged with the actual embroidery.
And, remember that ladies were expected to learn these fine arts as part of a ladie's education, as well as music and such. They may well have been literate, too.
Your turn
Dane
