This is a section of the wool embroidery on linen which was 20 inches high and more than 230 feet long. It was commissioned by William's half-brother, Bishop Odo of Bayeux, for Bayeux Cathedral in Normandy (northern France). The "Tapestry" is an extended visual narrative showing the bravery in battle, the naval brilliance, and the technical achievements of the Norman invaders of England. It is a political document as well as a work of art.
This section of the piece shows the long-boats that carried William's army across the English Channel. They were derived from Viking ships propelled by a sail and oars; the prows are decorated with heads of fantastic animals and are protected from being rammed by a shield at each end.
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