An amateur archaeologist accidentally found a unique pendant of King Henry VIII
(ORDO NEWS) — In the UK, an amateur archaeologist, literally in the forest, accidentally discovered a gold pendant and a chain with the initials of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon.
This find has already been recognized as unique, because it sheds new light on the relationship of the august persons.
Heritage Daily tells about the unexpected find. The artifact was discovered in Warwickshire.
The amateur archaeologist who found the pendant on a gold chain, in accordance with local laws, reported his discovery to the authorities.
The curious object was then studied by Historic England experts, who recognized it as a “treasure”.
This means that the find has signs of archaeological value and can be bought from an amateur archaeologist, with priority given to museums.
Experts have dated the gold jewelry to the 16th century AD. Moreover, they were able to determine that the pendant was probably made in 1521.
This is a very important date for studying the history of the artifact. The fact is that the jewelry is made of gold. The heart-shaped pendant is attached to a 75-link gold chain.
The front of the pendant is adorned with a red and white Tudor rose entwined with a pomegranate bush. Experts say that these were the symbols of King Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon.
In addition, the pendant bears the inscription “+TOVS+IORS”, which scientists have interpreted as a pun in French made for the word “always”.
On the reverse side of the pendant, the initials “H” and “K” were found, denoting, according to the researchers, the names of Henry and Catherine.
They are written in the so-called Lombard script and tied with a ribbon. In addition, the pun “+TOVS+IORS” is also duplicated here.
Historians recall that in 1521 Henry VIII was married to Catherine of Aragon. He married her in 1509, the marriage was annulled in 1533. By 1525, Henry VIII had fallen in love with Anne Boleyn.
The king was unhappy that his marriage to Catherine did not bring him an heir son. Therefore, he decided to annul the marriage, which eventually led England to a church split.
As for the jewelry found, scientists believe that it could be a prize. It is known that such prizes were awarded at the jousting tournament in Greenwich, held in 1521.
“This beautiful pendant is a breathtaking discovery that gives us a tangible connection to Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon and enriches our understanding of the royal court of the time,” said Duncan Wilson, Executive Director of Historic England.
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