Calls to bring ''mini Bayeux Tapestry' to Colchester museum

The Italian descendants of King William II’s killer, the Tirelli family, have said they want to donate the three-slab triptych to a museum in “Colchester or Scotland”.

William, who ruled from 1087 to 1100, was killed after going hunting when he was shot by an arrow.

The triptych, owned by the Tirelli family, tells the story of Walter Tirel, who was involved in the Battle of Hastings in 1066 and whose son of the same name killed William II.

The final slab of the art depicts Tirel’s escape from Langham near Colchester to Normandy after the killing.

Councillor - Mark Goacher has called for the council to get the triptych to Colchester (Image: Newsquest)

Speaking to The Guardian, the family said the works were assessed by independent historians and antiquities experts in Italy and the UK.

Since having it assessed, the family has reportedly received several offers, one allegedly in the region of €3m (£2.55m).

However, the family told the newspaper it is more important to bring the works back to the places it depicts.

“We would like to find an agreement with a public authority and donate it to a museum in Colchester or Scotland,” they said.

Historic - the owners of the art have said they want to donate it to a museum in Colchester or Scotland (Image: Newsquest)

Now, calls have been made for Colchester Council to “do all it can” to get the piece of history to the city.

City centre councillor and history teacher Mark Goacher said: “It is a fantastic opportunity for the city and I fear it could end up in Edinburgh.

“William II is the source topic on the OCR Norman Conquest unit we have taught at the Sixth Form College for many years.

“Given that the triptych could date from 1100, this would be like Colchester gaining its own mini Bayeux Tapestry.”

Timeless - a section from the historic Bayeux tapestry (Image: Stephane Maurice/Mairie de Bayeux via AP)

“William Rufus is one of the most colourful characters ever to occupy the English throne and his mysterious ‘accidental’ death in the New Forest is an enduring mystery on a par with the disappearance of the Princes in the Tower.

“This is a one off chance for Colchester and I’m hoping we will do all we can to ensure that the triptych comes here.”

A spokesman for Colchester Council said: “We are aware of the remarkable artwork and the Tirelli family’s incredibly generous intention to donate it to a UK institution.

“This potential acquisition is very exciting, and we have actively reached out to the Tirelli family in Italy to learn more.”