To become a successful dynasty, the Tudors had to create an absolutely unassailable royal image. One of their primary tools was the royal wardrobe.
With the numerous times the crown was seized in the 15th century, the notion of looking the part of King was incredibly important. Edward IV was determined to create an image that would reinforce his place on the English throne, wearing the finest clothing, jewels, and furs. Later, after another seizure of power, Henry VII would need to rely on Fortescue’s advice to create an image of unassailable royalty for himself and his heirs.
After all, the Tudors had to be accepted by their subjects, many of whom had switched allegiance regularly during the Wars of the Roses and didn’t know Henry VII at all. They had to exert power over the nobility. They had to impress foreign powers. They had to create and deliver an immediate and overwhelming message of dominance and royalty. Their regal appearance, conveyed by their wardrobe, was essential to the success of the dynasty. Dress was an important tool to convey power, wealth, and right to reign.
When dynasties change, clothing and jewels are often given away or taken apart to be made into something new. This is certainly true of Tudor clothing and jewels. With a couple of possible exceptions, almost nothing remains from the Tudor dynasty. But because of inventory records and portraits, we are able to get a clear sense of some of how royal dress was used to convey messages of authority and power through the majesty of appearance. It’s hard to imagine a dynasty more successfully accomplishing that mission of creating magnificence.
History shows us what's possible.
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