King Henry the Eighth and Anna Bullen

King Henry the Eighth and Anna Bullen by William Hogarth is an important example of 19th-century historical prints, executed as an engraving between 1800 and 1850. Although Hogarth, a celebrated master of 18th-century English social satire, died decades before this date range, the persistent popularity of his designs led to numerous posthumous editions being struck from his plates or copies of his works. Classified specifically as a print, this medium allowed for the widespread dissemination of dramatic historical scenes to a broad audience.

The artwork captures a significant moment featuring two of the most consequential figures of the Tudor era: King Henry VIII and his Queen, Anne Boleyn (here titled Anna Bullen). The composition skillfully utilizes detailed interiors to frame the powerful interaction between the Men and Women at the center of the courtly drama. Hogarth’s approach focuses on the psychological tension inherent in their relationship, leveraging the historical context to explore themes of power and consequence. The depiction relies on the rich visual vocabulary typical of historical reproductions, providing viewers with a perceived glimpse into the opulent settings of the period.

This specific engraving is held within the esteemed permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it serves as a critical document for understanding the reproduction and consumption of English narrative art in the early 19th century. The widespread distribution and continuing study of such works means that many high-quality prints derived from Hogarth's foundational designs are today part of the public domain, ensuring their accessibility for academic research worldwide.