Portrait of Henry VIII
1537
Hans Holbein the Younger created the ultimate royal propaganda machine with this iconic image of Henry VIII. Painted around 1537 to celebrate the birth of a male heir, this portrait was designed to make the King look as massive and intimidating as possible. Notice the heavy gold chains, the slashed sleeves showing off expensive fabric, and that unmistakable, stern gaze—it's the look of a man who absolutely refused to be ignored. Holbein's original mural was tragically destroyed by fire, but this image became the definitive 'brand' of the Tudor king that we still recognize today.
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