Search results

Start typing

This exhibition is in the past. View our current exhibitions.
? FLEMISH

Hat badge with St George and the dragon

c. 1520

RCIN 442208

Henry VIII (1491-1547)©

This beautiful badge was made by a highly skilled craftsman. It shows St George slaying a writhing dragon, while the princess kneels to the right. Although first recorded in the Royal Collection in 1830, by tradition it was presented to Henry VIII by the Emperor Maximilian. The subject of St George, patron of the Order of the Garter, would make an appropriate gift from the Emperor, who had been created a Knight of the Order in 1489. The badge would have been worn in the same way as the badge on Henry’s hat in the miniature shown.


    The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.