The British Museum has launched a campaign to try and buy a "spectacular" Tudor Heart which was found in Warwickshire.

Discovered in a field by a metal detectorist in 2019, the pendant is linked to Henry VIII and Katherine of Aragon.

The museum has launched a fundraising bid to buy the heart "permanently for the nation" and is trying to raise £3.5 million to do so.

Unearthed in a field in Warwickshire, the Heart was discovered and subsequently reported under the Treasure Act 1996.

Under the act, finders are obligated to report all finds of potential treasure and are rewarded for their contributions to the telling of history. 

Museums and galleries are then given the chance to buy the item, with the British Museum having until April 2026 to raise the necessary funds.

Dr Nicholas Cullinan OBE, Director of the British Museum, said: "The Tudor Heart is perhaps one of the most incredible pieces of English history to have ever been unearthed.

"Support will ensure that this unique and beautiful treasure is secured for the nation, so that it can be enjoyed by and inspire generations to come."

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The campaign has been kick-started by a donation of £500,000 from The Julia Rausing Trust.

The heart-shaped 24-carat-gold pendant offers a "rare glimpse" into Henry VIII's marriage to Katherine of Aragon, uniting the Tudor rose with Katherine's pomegranate symbol.

Beneath, a banner reads tousiors, the old French for 'always'.

Dr Rachel King, Curator of Renaissance Europe and the Waddesdon Bequest, said: "The object speaks to a significant moment in English royal history, giving a tangible view on one of the most significant marriages of the Tudor dynasty.

"The Tudor Heart offers new insights into the splendour of the court of Henry VIII and tells the often-forgotten stories of Katherine and Princess Mary."

Research by the British Museum suggests the pendant may have been created for a tournament held in October 1518 to mark the betrothal of their daughter, Princess Mary, to the French heir apparent.

Henry frequently commissioned London goldsmiths to create 'costume' jewellery for major celebrations and state occasions which were worn briefly by members of the court to create the impression of great splendour.

Almost no other objects survive that celebrate Henry and Katherine's relationship, most having been lost over time.

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