Henry and Anne’s affair began with a ‘stolen’ Ring
Some have speculated that Henry VIII first noticed Anne at a court pageant in March 1522. The theme of the pageant was the cruelty of unrequited love. Eight court ladies were involved, each personifying one of the virtues of the perfect mistress of the chivalric tradition. Dressed in, white satin and a headdress of Venetian gold, Anne rather appropriately played perseverance. At the time, however, Henry was still involved with his affair with Anne’s elder sister Mary Boleyn. By 1526, that affair was over, and it was then that Henry turned his attention to courting Anne.
It was a custom of courtly love for gentlemen to wear favors from their ladies. This practice could signify regard or courtesy. Or it could have a deeper meaning. According to Anne’s former attendant Anne Zouche, Henry’s interest in Anne became apparent when he took a ring from her that he began to wear on his little finger.
Anne discretely told no one that the King had her favor- until one day; Henry himself chose to reveal it to Anne’s would-be suitor, Thomas Wyatt. Wyatt and Henry were playing bowls. King, having scored a winning shot, pointed his victory out to Wyatt-using the finger with the ring. “Wyatt I tell thee that it is mine,” Henry told Wyatt. The courtier knew well whose ring it was that Henry wore and took the point immediately, wisely withdrawing his suit.