Day 91 - King of kings?

Picture: Henry VIII, after Hans Holbein the Younger, Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool

Usually, when “ASecludedPlace” reflects on a work of art, it is to draw inspiration from art; to give us a glimpse of God’s glory or of an aspect of His love or creation. In this week of the Platinum Jubilee, it is perhaps appropriate that we reflect on a picture of royalty. It is not, however, an image from which we can draw comfort, joy, or immediate inspiration.

This full-length portrait of King Henry VIII was originally painted by Hans Holbein but copied many times subsequently. It is perhaps the best-known image we have of him today. What do we see? Interestingly, Henry has none of the traditional symbols of royalty such as a crown or sceptre. His power and authority are conveyed through his pose, his facial expression directly facing the viewer, and the visible symbols of his immense wealth such as his opulent clothing and jewellery. Henry VIII’s size here is a sign of his power, with his barrel chest and his feet placed firmly apart. His hand hovers near his dagger and he fixes us with his cruel gaze.

It is thought that the portrait was intended as a piece of propaganda to reinforce the strength of the Tudor dynasty and Henry’s absolute authority. Henry was greatly taken with it and encouraged other artists to copy and distribute it, giving copies as gifts. Noblemen would commission their own copy to show their allegiance to the king.

Today, it is easy to forget the fear that such a portrait would have struck into the hearts of Henry VIII’s subjects. Henry had a reputation as a fierce and egotistical King who executed at will without trial those who stood in his way. He had several of his closest advisors and friends beheaded. In a British poll of historical writers, Henry VIII was chosen as the worst monarch in our history.

It is hard to think of a greater contrast than between King Henry VIII and our own Queen today. Even greater is the contrast between Henry and our Lord, our “King of Kings”. Henry was a powerful ruler who used fear and repression to maintain his control. Our God is a loving King - powerful yes, but above all, as Graham Kendrick so aptly put it, a “servant king”. God has a plan and purpose for our lives, but we can choose whether to follow Him. Henry made many unwise decisions as king of England. He made poor military judgements and almost bankrupted the country in the process. By contrast, Isaiah says of our Lord:-

And he will be called

Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Of the greatness of his government and peace

there will be no end.

He will reign on David’s throne

and over his kingdom,

establishing and upholding it

with justice and righteousness

from that time on and for ever. (Isaiah 9 v 6-7)

Whether or not you will be marking the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee this weekend, may we give thanks and praise anew to our “King of Kings and Lord of lords”. As Paul says in his first letter to Timothy: “To him be honour and might forever, Amen.” Amen indeed.

Philip Clarke