£500,000 grant to kickstart campaign to save exquisite Henry VIII pendant

The Julia Rausing Trust today announces a £500,000 grant to kickstart the British Museum’s campaign to save the ‘Tudor Heart’, a spectacular gold pendant linked to Henry VIII and Katherine of Aragon, by acquiring it permanently for the nation.

Discovered in 2019 by a metal detectorist, the British Museum aims to raise £3.5m by April 2026 to purchase the Heart and stop it entering a private collection.

The Trust hopes that its lead donation of £500,000 will not only bring the Museum closer to acquiring the pendant but also encourage public support to help it reach its goal. This will ensure the ‘Tudor Heart’ remains on view for generations to come.

Simon Fourmy, Chief Executive of The Julia Rausing Trust, said “We are delighted to support the British Museum in acquiring the Tudor Heart for the nation. This remarkable pendant sheds light on a defining royal marriage and enriches our understanding of the Tudor world. We hope others will be as inspired by this extraordinary object as we were, and will join us in giving generously to ensure this treasure remains on view for many years to come.”

Dr Nicholas Cullinan OBE, Director of the British Museum, said: “The Tudor Heart is perhaps one of the most incredible pieces of English history to have ever been unearthed. Support will ensure that this unique and beautiful treasure is secured for the nation, so that it can be enjoyed by and inspire generations to come.”

Dr Rachel King, Curator Renaissance Europe and the Waddesdon Bequest, said: “The object speaks to a significant moment in English royal history, giving a tangible view on one of the most significant marriages of the Tudor dynasty. The Tudor Heart offers new insights into the splendour of the court of Henry VIII and tells the often-forgotten stories of Katherine and Princess Mary.”

The public campaign is now live and open for donations. The Tudor Heart will also be on view in Gallery 2 until April 2026.

14th October 2025