Man behind Anne Boleyn’s rise and fall is exposed in new portrait at her childhood home

A new portrait of the man behind Anne Boleyn’s rise and fall has been unveiled at her childhood home, Hever Castle. The painting depicts Thomas Cromwell, known as the mastermind behind Anne Boleyn’s ascent to the English throne and her subsequent downfall, just three years later. This 16th-century artwork forms part of an exhibition coinciding with the launch of the second BBC series based on Hilary Mantel’s novel ‘Wolf Hall’, where Cromwell plays a significant role.

Owen Emmerson, the assistant curator at Hever Castle and historical consultant for ‘Wolf Hall: The Mirror And The Light’, initially hesitated to acquire the portrait in 2020 due to concerns about Anne Boleyn’s possible reaction. However, he decided to proceed with the purchase, considering it a way to fulfill Boleyn’s past threat to Cromwell of wanting his head off his shoulders, as the portrait only shows Cromwell’s head.

Reflecting on Cromwell’s complex legacy, Dr Emmerson highlighted that Cromwell not only played a part in the Boleyn family’s downfall but also contributed to their initial rise to power. The painting of Cromwell, previously part of the Duke of Manchester’s art collection, underwent extensive restoration after being acquired by Hever Castle. It had originally hung in Kimbolton Castle, the final home of Catherine of Aragon, Henry VIII’s first wife.

The unveiling of this portrait sheds light on the intricate history of the Tudor period and the significant roles played by key figures such as Thomas Cromwell in shaping England’s monarchy. Visitors to Hever Castle can now witness this piece of history firsthand, adding a new dimension to their understanding of Anne Boleyn’s dramatic rise and fall.

In conclusion, the unveiling of the portrait of Thomas Cromwell at Hever Castle offers a deeper insight into the intricate relationships and power dynamics of Tudor England. It serves as a poignant reminder of the complex interplay between individuals that shaped historical events and continues to captivate audiences with tales of intrigue and betrayal from centuries past.