LONDON — The Bayeux Tapestry, an 11th-century treasure showing the tale of how William the Conqueror came to invade England in 1066, is set to be displayed in Britain after France agreed it could leave the country for the first time in 950 years, French officials said Wednesday.

President Emmanuel Macron is expected to announce the loan during a visit to Britain on Thursday, French officials said. But the transfer is not expected to happen before 2020, as the fragile tapestry needs work to ensure it is safe to move.

The news was nevertheless met with enthusiasm in Britain, where the tapestry has strong historical resonance.

Hartwig Fischer, the director of the British Museum, said in a statement, “This would be a major loan, probably the most significant ever from France to the U.K. It is a gesture of extraordinary generosity and proof of the deep ties that link our countries.”