Portret van Hendrik VIII 1817 - 1837

Pierre Roch Vigneron rendered this portrait of Henry VIII with etching. The symbols of power are on full display. The Tudor Rose, prominently hanging as a pendant, is a potent emblem. It symbolizes the union of the Houses of York and Lancaster, ending the War of the Roses and ushering in the Tudor dynasty. This emblem extends beyond mere heraldry; it embodies the very essence of the Tudor claim to the throne and its cultural aspirations. The Rose motif finds resonance in earlier works, such as the rose windows of Gothic cathedrals. Over time, it has surfaced in diverse contexts, from decorative arts to political propaganda. Consider the psychological weight of such imagery. The Tudor Rose taps into deep-seated desires for stability and unity, resonating on a subconscious level. It’s a symbol that has evolved, adapted, and resurfaced, embodying the cyclical nature of history and the persistence of collective memory.