Tests have been taking place to discover more about a rare portrait of Henry VIII’s brother, Arthur, the first husband of Catherine of Aragon.
The artwork, which was purchased in 2005 as the only surviving portrait of Arthur painted in his lifetime, is currently on display in the Castle’s Long Gallery.
The painting was previously owned by the Royal Collection from at least 1542 until 1714 when it was sold into a private collection.
In 1993 it came up for auction and it underwent dendrochronological analysis by the respected Scientist Ian Tyers. This came back with a date for the felling of the tree on which the artwork was painted on of around 1460.
Research is now taking place to discover whether the Arthur portrait was created by Meynnart Wewyck, the court painter of Henry VII.
The Arthur portrait has undergone a number of non-invasive tests which include x-ray and infrared imaging.
Other tests including scanning macro-X-ray fluorescence analysis (MA-XRF), which allows for the detailed visualization of hidden paint layers.
The results are expected by the end of the year – watch this space for more information.
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.