Catherine of Aragon Sculpture – Pomegranate
Henry VIII had six wives, and I am sure you know the ditty: divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived! Although technically his marriage to Catherine of Aragon was an annulment and not divorce! Catherine of Aragon was Henry VIII’s first wife. There is some more information on the Hampton Court website about this. Catherine was from Spain and her personal emblem was the pomegranate.
Henry VIII’s and Catherine of Aragon’s marriage was annulled at Priory Church in Dunstable. This was a significant event as it saw the break with Rome as the Pope would not grant the annulment. This led to Henry VIII becoming the head of the English Church.
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The concept behind the wooden sculptures
The inspiration came from recognising notable historical significances in Dunstable as part of the High Street Heritage Action Zone (HSHAZ) scheme. Crafted entirely from English oak, the sculptures were created using wood sourced from various locations, including Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, and a golf course near Southampton. The wood used was from trees that had been cut down as part of general land management. Dunstable Town Council commissioned sculpturer Peter Leadbeater who brought the historical vision to life.
Thanks to funding from Historic England Dunstable HSHAZ scheme and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) through Central Bedfordshire Council (CBC) for making this project possible.
