Portrait of a Lady, thought to be Anne Boleyn 1534

Here, at the British Museum, is a portrait thought to be of Anne Boleyn, created in the 1530’s, by Hans Holbein the Younger, using pigments and chalk on paper. Holbein, a German artist who served as court painter to Henry VIII, captured what many believe to be Anne Boleyn with incredible detail. As a woman of immense influence and tragic fate, Anne's identity has been subjected to many representations. Holbein’s portrait offers an intimate glimpse into her persona. Her gaze, averted and serene, hints at the complexities of her position as a woman navigating the treacherous waters of the Tudor court. Anne’s story resonates through history. She challenged prevailing social norms while dealing with themes of love, ambition, and betrayal. This piece reminds us of the intense gender politics that marked her rise and fall. The portrait serves as both a historical record and a powerful reflection on identity, power, and the enduring legacy of a woman who defied expectations.