In the book "Henry VIII: The King and His Court" by Alison Weir, it is revealed that King Henry VIII had an impressive collection of over eight hundred carpets. This extensive assortment highlights the king's opulence and the importance of lavish decor in the royal court during his reign. Such luxuries were not just for aesthetic purposes but also served to display wealth and power to visitors and subjects alike.
Henry VIII’s fascination with carpets reflects the broader trends of Renaissance splendor and the significance of material possessions in asserting authority. The sheer number of carpets he owned indicates a keen interest in interior design and comfort, linking his personal tastes with the political climate of the time, where displaying grandeur was crucial for maintaining a royal image.