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Writer's pictureMary Katherine Fickel

Post On X Leads To Lost Painting Of Henry VIII

In a remarkable twist, a seemingly innocuous post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has led to the identification of a long-lost portrait of one of history's most infamous monarchs, King Henry VIII. The tale begins with a photograph of the Shire Hall in Warwick, West Midlands, posted online without fanfare or expectation. Yet, this simple image caught the discerning eye of Adam Busiakiewicz, a consultant for the prestigious auction house Sotheby's. Busiakiewicz, who has a keen interest in art history, felt an immediate sense of intrigue when he saw the portrait hanging in the council hall.



Painting of King Henry VIII
Upon closer examination and subsequent investigation, Busiakiewicz’s hunch was confirmed. The portrait was indeed an original work by Holbein, thought to have been lost to history. The discovery of this painting in such an unexpected location adds a layer of mystery and excitement to the world of art history.


Busiakiewicz, a seasoned art historian, described the moment of discovery with a sense of serendipity. "It just stood out to me," he said, reflecting on the instant recognition he felt upon seeing the photograph. His trained eye spotted the unique characteristics of the painting, which bore an unmistakable resemblance to the style of the renowned artist Hans Holbein the Younger. Holbein is famously known for his portraits of the Tudor court, particularly those of Henry VIII, which have become iconic representations of the English monarch.


Upon closer examination and subsequent investigation, Busiakiewicz’s hunch was confirmed. The portrait was indeed an original work by Holbein, thought to have been lost to history. The discovery of this painting in such an unexpected location adds a layer of mystery and excitement to the world of art history. It raises questions about how the portrait ended up in the Shire Hall and why its significance went unnoticed for so long.


The identification of this portrait as a missing masterpiece is a testament to the power of social media and the eagle-eyed experts who scour it for hidden gems. It also highlights the importance of public buildings and council halls, which often house artworks of significant historical value. The Shire Hall in Warwick is now not just a seat of local government but a custodian of a piece of history with international significance.


This discovery has undoubtedly put the Shire Hall on the map, attracting art lovers, historians, and curious visitors eager to see the portrait of Henry VIII. It serves as a reminder that history is not just found in museums and galleries but can be hiding in plain sight, waiting to be discovered by those with the knowledge and passion to recognize it. The story of this portrait's rediscovery is a fascinating chapter in the ongoing narrative of art history, illustrating the enduring allure of the past and the ever-present possibility of new discoveries.


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