Funding secured to help conserve Jacobian tapestry at Cannon Hall

Barnsley Museums and Heritage Trust have secured funding of £10,000 to help conserve a stunning 17th Century Tapestry, 'The Judgement of Paris’ from the Cannon Hall collection.

Depicting a story from Greek mythology, the artwork was one of the first items accessioned into the museum’s collections in the 1950’s.

It was generously donated by Ernest Edward Cook, grandson of the travel agent Thomas Cook, who left his collection to the Art Fund to distribute, who then allocated it to Cannon Hall Museum.

Regular visitors will be aware of the piece, which has been on display for many years in the Cannon Hall Ballroom, where it is an ideal fit stylistically.

The £10,000 will be used towards the £25,000 cost of conservation via an Aim Remedial Conservation Grant generously supported by the Pilgrim Trust.

The conservation will include cleaning, repairing holes and restoring missing, faded or damaged stitching areas.

Councillor Robert Frost, Cabinet Spokesperson for Regeneration and Culture, said: “Barnsley Museum’s collections are outstanding and reflect the rich and fascinating history of our borough.  It’s important that they are preserved and protected for future generations to enjoy.  Barnsley Museums Heritage Trust work hard to raise funds for restorations such as this, and people can show their support through donations no matter how big or small.  We are confident we will raise enough money to repair this extraordinary piece of history and bring the tapestry back to life.”

If you would like to help fund the tapestry conservation, text TAPESTRY followed by the amount you wish to donate to 70085, or via the DONATE button at www.bmht.org.