The Worshipful Company of Upholders is one of the ancient Livery Companies of the City of London. Formed in 1360 and granted its Royal Charter by King Charles I in 1626, the Company has historic roots in upholstery, soft furnishings, furniture, funeral undertaking and associated trades. Today, it continues to support the Civic City, its craft traditions, charitable causes, education and the wider Livery movement.

In 2026, the Company celebrates the 400th anniversary of the granting of its Royal Charter with The Circle of Life, a landmark national embroidery artwork created using the ancient technique of Opus Anglicanum. The project brings together the Royal School of Needlework, Fine Cell Work, twelve English cathedrals and 106 stitchers to create a major new work of textile art that honours craftsmanship, heritage and the continuing story of the Upholders.

The Making of The Circle of Life Artwork exhibition at Guildhall is part of the Company’s anniversary celebrations, offering the public an opportunity to discover the people, organisations and craft behind this exceptional project.