Few figures from Tudor England have been as intensely examined as Anne Boleyn. Her image has shaped not only perceptions of the queen herself but also wider narratives of power and reputation within the Tudor court. Published to accompany the 2026 exhibition, Capturing a Queen: The Image of Anne Boleyn, this book explores one of the most compelling and controversial questions in Tudor history.
Drawing on original research by Dr Owen Emmerson and incorporating groundbreaking scientific analysis of Hever Castle’s most famous portrait of Anne Boleyn, the Hever ‘Rose’, the book offers fresh perspectives and striking new insights into an image that has fascinated both scholars and the public for generations.
Throughout the pages of this exhibition catalogue, Emmerson and Kate McCaffrey chart how Anne’s image was carefully constructed, contested, and continually reshaped. Their research combines historical insight with compelling analysis to uncover the stories, interpretations, and societal influences that have contributed to the most famous portrait of one of England’s most intriguing queens. They reveal that the Hever ‘Rose’ portrait is the earliest scientifically dated panel portrait of Anne Boleyn currently known, placing it at a moment where her image was consistently revisited amid intense political and religious tensions.
This book explores why Anne Boleyn’s image continues to captivate academics, historians, and the public 500 years after her death. It is designed to complement the new exhibition at Hever Castle, Capturing a Queen: The Image of Anne Boleyn, inviting readers to understand the relationship between image, power, and reputation in Tudor England. In doing so, it offers deeper insight into Anne’s life, legacy, and the lasting fascination surrounding her ever-evolving image.
It is available to pre-order on the online shop from 2 February, with all orders scheduled to begin shipping from 20 February
Readers wishing to explore the authors’ work further can also discover a selection of related titles by Dr Owen Emmerson and Kate McCaffrey, including and Becoming Anne. Both of which offer fresh perspectives on key figures within Tudor history.
Book your visit to Hever Castle & Gardens.
Within the grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, there are two opportunities for you to stay the night with us.
Hever Castle has played host to many important events and celebrations for over 600 years. In 1903 when William Waldorf Astor set about restoring Hever Castle to its former glory, he added the Astor Wing, to accommodate his family and guests, before creating a lake and the spectacular Italian Garden to house his impressive collection of ancient Greek and Roman statuary.
There are multiple places to eat & drink across the Hever Castle Estate. Select between the Castle & Gardens and Golf Club below to discover more.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, Hever Castle Golf Club is a 27 hole Kent golf course that will encourage and inspire all golf enthusiasts.
Set in the mature grounds of the Hever Castle Estate, the Wellbeing Centre consists of five smart treatment rooms.
