How Anne Boleyn's Enigmatic Image Was Rewritten Over Centuries

Artnet News

by Jo Lawson-Tancred

February 19, 2026

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Anne Boleyn’s image has been shaped and reshaped over centuries, reflecting changing attitudes and political agendas. A new exhibition at Hever Castle, her childhood home, delves into this fascinating evolution, showcasing an unprecedented collection of portraits and costumes that reveal how Anne was reimagined in the public eye after her execution in 1536. The exhibit challenges long-held myths, such as the belief that Henry VIII destroyed all her portraits to erase her from history. Instead, rare contemporary depictions—like a 1530s woodcut and a drawing attributed to Hans Holbein—offer fresh insights into her true appearance. Among the exhibition’s highlights is a portrait at London’s National Portrait Gallery often thought to depict Anne herself. However, recent research reveals that the face in this painting actually belongs to her daughter, Elizabeth I. This discovery suggests that Anne’s image was sometimes manipulated for political purposes, such as bolstering Elizabeth’s claim to the throne. Similarly, infrared analysis of the Hever “Rose” Portrait (1583) shows that it was altered to include Anne’s hands, likely to counter rumors accusing her of being a witch or having six fingers. The exhibition also raises important questions about why Anne’s appearance has been so heavily scrutinized. Curators argue that her charisma, wit, and intelligence were far more significant than her looks. This perspective aligns with historical evidence: Henry VIII was reportedly drawn to her for her personality rather than her physical beauty. By focusing on these aspects, the exhibit encourages a deeper understanding of Anne as a complex figure who navigated the treacherous court of Henry VIII with skill and finesse.

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Originally published on Artnet News on 2/19/2026