Henry VIII: Dressed to Kill - in the Tower of London
In addition to being the most highly functioning armour yet produced, seen close-up, the armour of Henry VIII is richly decorated, with astonishing attention to detail.
The various armours were the most lavish ever seen in their day, and reflected the cutting-edge of craftsmanship as well as international fashions - including decorations by Holbein and imports from Milan.
What's more, the decorations themselves - the religious imagery, heraldic and political symbols - relate explicitly to the Tudor saga. Changing allegiances to successive wives, religious views and political ambitions are all here - as such, their art tells us a great deal about Henry's personal beliefs...
Read entire article at Independent (UK)
The various armours were the most lavish ever seen in their day, and reflected the cutting-edge of craftsmanship as well as international fashions - including decorations by Holbein and imports from Milan.
What's more, the decorations themselves - the religious imagery, heraldic and political symbols - relate explicitly to the Tudor saga. Changing allegiances to successive wives, religious views and political ambitions are all here - as such, their art tells us a great deal about Henry's personal beliefs...