The Vyne's tapestries were warped and breaking, now, thanks to our generous supporters, we are able to rescue the legacy of John Vanderbank, the greatest tapestry weaver of his time.
One of The Vyne's tapestries is carefully rolled ahead of three years of conservationNational Trust Images/James Dobson
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An eighteenth-century European take on eastern art and culture, Vanderbank was instrumental in the introduction of ‘chinoiserie’ motifs to tapestry weaving"
Help us repair The Vyne’s Soho tapestries
The legacy of the greatest tapestry weaver of his time, John Vanderbank, six eighteenth-century ‘chinoiserie’ tapestries urgently need your help. Historic repairs have begun to fail and the tapestries’ backings have warped, putting strain on the fragile fabric. Your gift today can help rescue these treasures for generations to come.
Loose threads and previous repairs on one of The Vyne's Soho tapestries.
National Trust Images/Daniel Lewis
Loose threads and previous repairs on one of The Vyne's Soho tapestries.
Save important markers in inter-cultural history
The result of historic exchanges between the East and Europe the tapestries depict the East through the romanticised, exaggerated lens of the European explorer. The tapestries chart a significant historic chapter in the development of today’s globalised world.
One of The Vyne's Soho tapestries which feature 'chinoiserie' motifs.
National Trust Images/Daniel Lewis
One of The Vyne's Soho tapestries which feature 'chinoiserie' motifs.
How you can help
The project will cost £382,000 mainly funded by the National Trust. However, with a total of 250,000 hectares of countryside, 778 miles of coastline and hundreds of special places across England, Wales and Northern Ireland to look after, the Trust must look to the generosity of its supporters to meet a £35,000 shortfall.
A section of tapestry in urgent need of repair.
National Trust Images/Daniel Lewis
A section of tapestry in urgent need of repair.
Work has begun
Ahead of extensive conservation work, The Vyne’s Soho tapestries have already made a 291 mile journey to Belgium ‘for a bath’. A process known as ‘wet cleaning’ saw each tapestry laid out on a suction table and sprayed with a mist mixed with mild detergent which was drawn through the historic fabric. Now back in the UK, the tapestries need meticulous care to secure their future.
Donate to The Vyne tapestries appeal
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Why give to the National Trust?
As a charity, we rely on the generosity of supporters to look after the irreplaceable treasures in our care. Memberships help to pay for some of the work we do. But they only go so far. Additional donations are crucial to maintaining our collections, from stunning works of silverware to personal keepsakes that bring the past to life. Your donation will go towards this project and other vital conservation work to our collections at this special place. With your support, we can continue to conserve, protect and provide access to these fascinating pieces of history. For ever, for everyone.
