The British Museum has secured the future of a remarkable piece of Tudor history, successfully raising £3.5 million to acquire a gold pendant linked to King Henry VIII and his first wife, Katherine of Aragon. The four-month fundraising campaign, launched in October, culminated in the museum reaching its goal, ensuring the “Tudor Heart” will become a permanent part of its collection.
The pendant, discovered by a metal detectorist in a Warwickshire field in 2019, is more than just a beautiful artifact; it’s a tangible connection to a pivotal period in English history. The acquisition was made possible by a combination of £360,000 in public donations – coming from over 45,000 individuals – and substantial grants from organizations like the National Heritage Memorial Fund, which contributed £1.75 million, alongside other arts organizations.
Museum director Nicholas Cullinan emphasized the significance of the achievement, stating, “The success of the campaign shows the power of history to spark the imagination and why objects like the Tudor Heart should be in a museum.” This sentiment underscores the museum’s commitment to preserving and showcasing objects that offer a window into the past, making them accessible to a wider audience.
The pendant itself is a fascinating object. Research conducted by the British Museum suggests it may have been commissioned in 1518 to commemorate the betrothal of Henry VIII’s two-year-old daughter, Princess Mary, to the eight-month-old French heir-apparent. This detail adds another layer of historical importance, linking the pendant not only to the king and queen but also to the complex dynastic politics of the era.
The design of the Tudor Heart is rich in symbolism. It cleverly unites the Tudor rose – a symbol of the English monarchy – with Katherine of Aragon’s pomegranate emblem, representing her Spanish heritage. Adding to its romantic and historical weight, the pendant features a banner inscribed with the Old French word “tousiors,” meaning “always.” This inscription speaks to the enduring nature of love and commitment, even amidst the political turmoil that characterized Henry VIII’s reign.
The acquisition process was governed by the Treasure Act 1996, which provides museums and galleries in England with the opportunity to acquire historically significant objects discovered by the public. Under the Act, the museum was required to provide a reward to both the metal detectorist who unearthed the pendant and the landowner on whose property it was found. This legal framework ensures that discoveries are properly reported and that both the finder and the landowner are appropriately compensated.
The pendant has already been on display at the British Museum since the fundraising announcement, giving the public a preview of this remarkable artifact. It will be formally added to the museum’s permanent collection later this year, with plans for a future tour of the UK, bringing this piece of history to audiences across the country. The Independent reported that the pendant is made of 24-carat gold, further highlighting its value and craftsmanship.
The story of the Tudor Heart is a compelling example of how historical artifacts can capture the public imagination. The successful fundraising campaign demonstrates a widespread appreciation for the Tudor period and a desire to preserve its legacy. It also highlights the crucial role that museums play in safeguarding our cultural heritage and making it accessible to future generations.
The acquisition comes at a time when interest in Tudor history remains strong, fueled by popular television series, historical novels, and ongoing academic research. The Tudor Heart pendant offers a unique and intimate glimpse into the lives of Henry VIII and Katherine of Aragon, adding a new dimension to our understanding of this fascinating period.
The British Museum’s ability to secure the pendant is a testament to its fundraising capabilities and its commitment to acquiring objects of national importance. The museum’s director, Nicholas Cullinan, clearly understands the power of objects to connect us to the past and inspire a sense of wonder and curiosity. The Tudor Heart is poised to become a treasured centerpiece of the museum’s collection, attracting visitors and scholars for years to come.
