Blanche Parry was Queen Elizabeth I’s confidante and the unique Bacton Altar Cloth was allowed to come to Bacton by the Queen presumably in memory of her friend. It is the only surviving example in the world, from the period, of direct embroidery. The white silk is shot through with silver, and embroidered with gold and other rare colours. Due to sumptuary laws for clothes, it could only be worn by royalty, by Queen Elizabeth I herself. It is the only surviving provenanced material from one of the Queen’s dresses and she had 1,900 when she died. Displayed in Bacton Church for 106 years, conserved by the Historic Royal Palaces Conservation Department, exhibited 2019-2020, it is now stored at Hampton Court Palace. Our beautiful replica, printed on canvas, with a very high resolution, was photographed with special equipment to reveal stunning detail.
We can chat about the Bacton Altar Cloth and the other features of the Church – but also about Blanche and Queen Elizabeth I.
Do join me if you wish…. donations to Bacton Church would be appreciated.
