When the House of Lancaster triumphed over the House of York after the Wars of the Roses, a powerful dynasty emerged. Henry VII, through his marriage to Elizabeth of York, united the two houses and sought to emphasize the legitimacy of his rule. He turned to the medieval tradition of heraldry, using symbols and motifs extensively to assert his rightful claim to the English throne, both to his subjects and to potential rivals.
Henry VIII continued his father’s efforts to solidify the Tudor dynasty’s legitimacy. One prominent display of heraldic symbols is found at Hampton Court Palace, one of the king’s most iconic residences, known for its grandeur and celebrations.
Lining the Moat Bridge are ten stone beasts, representing the ancestry of Henry VIII and his third wife, Jane Seymour. Featuring a mix of real and mythical creatures, these heraldic figures inspired The Royal Tudor Beasts Collection, a tribute to the symbols of one of England’s most influential dynasties.