Aug
The Tudor Rose is a symbol steeped in English history, representing the unification of two rival factions that once tore the nation apart. It holds deep significance even today and stands as a proud heritage symbol both in its traditional form and modern reincarnations. But what is the story behind this iconic emblem, and how did it come to hold such a significant place in the annals and iconography of British history?
Join Bonds the Jewellers as we delve into a brief history of this fascinating emblem, exploring its significance today and how it has inspired a range of stunning jewellery designs.
The Origin Of The Tudor Rose
The story of the Tudor Rose began in the 15th century during the Wars of the Roses. This conflict was fought between the House of Lancaster and the House of York, who were represented by the symbol of a red rose and a white rose respectively.
The Wars of the Roses spanned 30 years of brutal conflict but finally came to an end in 1485 when Henry Tudor, the leader of the House of Lancaster, defeated King Richard III at the Battle of Bosworth. The years that followed marked the beginning of the Tudor dynasty and, to legitimise his claim to the throne, Henry VII married Elizabeth of York and united the two opposing houses.
As a marker of this union and move towards peace and unity, Henry VII combined the red rose of Lancaster and the white rose of York and thus the Tudor Rose was born. The Tudor Rose became the emblem of his reign, with cultural and historical significance permeating far beyond the years of his reign.
The Design Of The Emblem
While the depiction of the Tudor Rose emblem has been reimagined and reinterpreted over time, it typically contains the same characterising features which symbolise its rich history. Most commonly, the Tudor Rose is depicted as a double rose with a smaller white rose set above a red rose. Each has five petals, a golden centre, and green leaves around the petals.
The emblem can be depicted both in its characteristic vibrant colours as well as neutral tones, reflecting the way it was often carved into building architecture by stonemasons in some of Britain’s most historic buildings.
The Tudor Rose In The 21st Century
Centuries have passed since the Tudor Rose was first created, yet the very fact we are drawn to it as a topic of conversation and source of artistic inspiration today highlights its historical significance. The Tudor Rose emblem remains an enduring symbol of English history and heritage and is still used and seen in many forms, from official heraldry to modern designs.
Some examples of places where the Tudor Rose emblem can be found in the 21st Century include British currency, the logo of the England Rugby team, the badge of HMS Queen Elizabeth, and many architectural details across the country. Most notably, the Tudor Rose Emblem can be seen in Westminster Abbey where roses are carved into the Abbery’s architecture.
Tudor Rose Inspired Jewellery
The historical significance of this famous emblem has also inspired a wide range of Tudor Rose jewellery. The distinctive and intricate emblem lends itself perfectly to a range of jewellery designs, including brooches and pendants. In fact, at Bonds the Jewellers, we are incredibly proud to have created a range of sterling silver Tudor Rose jewellery on behalf of the building at the heart of the emblem’s 21st-century significance: Westminster Abbey.
Drawing on the traditional shape of the emblem, we created two beautiful sterling silver brooches: one made entirely from sterling silver and one with a contrasting bronze centre. Both feature the clear outline of the two roses and barbs, utilising delicate outlines to give the emblem a modern touch.
These gorgeous designs are available to order online from Bonds the Jewellers today, and we can also supply them wholesale if you would like to stock them at your own attraction or heritage gift shop. Contact us to find out more about the fascinating Tudor Rose emblem designs or discuss your requirements for your own bespoke design.
