British Museum raises £3.5 Million to save Tudor Heart Pendant linked to Henry VIII

The dazzling 24ct gold heart-shaped pendant was discovered by a metal detectorist in Warwickshire in 2019 and is the only piece of jewellery of its kind from the time of Henry VIII's marriage to his first wife Katherine of Aragon. It shows the Tudor rose with Katherine's pomegranate symbol and beneath, a banner reads tousiors, the old French for 'always', a poignant declaration of an eternal connection.

Henry's marriage to Katherine was the longest of his life, lasting 24 years. The Tudor Heart acts as an important historical witness, showing the devotion of Henry to Katherine and how their marriage shaped the early Tudor court. Katherine was a trusted partner of Henry, sometimes acting as Regent in his times of absence.

Almost no other objects survive that celebrate Henry and Katherine's relationship, most having been lost over time. The Heart shows both the luxury of Henry VIII's earlier reign and the strength of their union before it was ultimately annulled in 1533.

Research by the British Museum suggests the pendant may have been created for a tournament held in October 1518 to mark the betrothal of their daughter, Princess Mary, to the French heir apparent. Henry frequently commissioned London goldsmiths to create 'costume' jewellery for major celebrations and state occasions which were worn briefly by members of the court to create the impression of great splendour.

The Museum will now engage with DCMS on the payment of the reward to the finder and landowner and hopes to have the Heart formally in the collection later this year.