Cream Tea with Wendy Holden: The Queen's Painter

Friday 13 November, 2:30pm - 4:00pm, The Museum of Making, DE1 3AF

In her latest novel Wendy Holden presents a new take on the Anne Boleyn story. The Queen’s Painter traces her stellar rise and tragic fall as seen by Tudor court artist Hans Holbein. When the brilliant young Holbein arrives at the Tudor court, Anne Boleyn is among his first patrons. 

Courtiers clamour for his portraits of lifelike accuracy; pictures which tell the truth about their subjects. Heartbroken and enraged when Anne is beheaded, Hans joins forces with poet and diplomat Thoma Wyatt, who is agonised at his own unwitting part in her tragedy. They vow revenge on the person they blame for Anne’s downfall: Thomas Cromwell. 

Their opportunity arises when Henry VIII seeks a fourth wife and Cromwell asks them to travel across Europe to find and paint a new bride. Cromwell’s position depends on a portrait of someone young and beautiful, painted with Hans’ trademark truth. Anything less could bring the whole court crashing down. 

Wendy will be in conversation with Festival Trustee Sue Wall.

'As exquisitely-rendered as a Holbein masterpiece, this vivid and compelling novel breathes new life into one of the most dramatic stories in English history' Tracy Borman

'Brimful of sumptuous details... a fresh and engaging take on familiar Tudor political shenanigans' Daily Mail

Tea, coffee and scones will be served at the beginning of the event followed by the talk and time for Q&A with Wendy Holden.   Once you have booked tickets you will be sent a short form to complete to make your scone selection, advise of dietary requirements, access needs and to confirm the guests attending.