King's Chamberlain: William Sandys of the Vyne, Chamberlain to Henry VIII

The book explores the life, activities, and achievements of William, 1st Baron Sandys, Knight of the Garter, who rose from a modest position to prominence during the reigns of Henry VII and Henry VIII. It discusses his relationships with key figures such as Henry VIII, Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Cardinal Wolsey, Thomas Cromwell, and senior courtiers, and presents evidence suggesting his involvement in the downfall of Anne Boleyn. Sandys was an outstanding soldier and served as Chamberlain to Henry VIII for fourteen years, building the Vyne mansion and extending the Holy Ghost Chapel in Basingstoke.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 15 December 2021
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

This captivating book delves into the remarkable life, activities, and achievements of William, the 1st Baron Sandys, Knight of the Garter. It tells the story of a Hampshire man who, during the reigns of Henry VII and Henry VIII, rose from a relatively modest but well-connected position to attain prominence. Throughout most of his life, he was closely entwined with the centers of power, inevitably becoming involved in the political and religious issues of the time. The book explores his relationships with key figures such as Henry VIII, Catherine of Aragon, Anne Boleyn, Cardinal Wolsey, Thomas Cromwell, and senior courtiers.

Evidence is presented that suggests Sandys played a significant role in the downfall of Anne Boleyn. From his participation in the battle of Stoke in 1487, where he was knighted by Henry VII, to his passing, Sandys was revered as an exceptional soldier and feared by his French opponents. He ascended from the position of Treasurer of War in the 1512 Spanish campaign to Treasurer of Calais between 1517 and 1526. Subsequently, for the last fourteen years of his life, he served as Chamberlain to Henry VIII.

In the 1520s, Sandys embarked on the construction of the Vyne mansion, which has been described as a palace and was visited by Henry VIII and Elizabeth I on numerous occasions. He also extended the Holy Ghost Chapel in Basingstoke and converted Mottisfont priory into another mansion. These properties were meticulously furnished to the highest standards and taste using English and Flemish craftsmen.

The 1st Baron Sandys left a lasting legacy, not only in terms of his military prowess and political influence but also through his architectural and artistic endeavors. His contributions to the English Renaissance and his support for the arts and culture are noteworthy. This book provides a comprehensive and insightful account of the life and times of William, 1st Baron Sandys, Knight of the Garter, offering a valuable perspective on the Tudor era.

Weight: 648g
Dimension: 166 x 245 x 38 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398102811