On May 6, 2023, a historic event will unfold as King Charles III and Queen Consort Camilla are crowned at Westminster Abbey. This ceremony is not just a royal tradition but a moment that symbolizes the continuity of the British monarchy. Following the passing of his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth II, last September, King Charles ascended the throne, marking a significant transition in royal history more than 70 years after his mother's own coronation.
During the sacred moments of the crowning and anointing, King Charles will sit upon the 700-year-old Coronation Chair, a piece of furniture steeped in rich history. The Coronation Chair has been central to English coronations for centuries and is regarded as one of the most valuable artifacts of the British monarchy. As the world watches this grand event, it is essential to reflect on the chair's past and its significance in royal ceremonies, which dates back to its commissioning by King Edward I.
This article delves into the origins, decorations, and fascinating stories surrounding the Coronation Chair, shedding light on its enduring legacy and the ongoing conservation efforts to preserve this iconic symbol of royal tradition. Let’s explore the journey of this remarkable chair, from its creation to its current state as it prepares to witness another royal crowning.
Table of Contents
- Origins of the Coronation Chair
- Decorations and Artistic Significance
- Graffiti and Historical Marks
- Current Status and Conservation Efforts
Origins of the Coronation Chair
The Coronation Chair was commissioned by King Edward I in the late 13th century to house the Stone of Scone, a significant symbol of Scottish monarchy. This stone was brought from Scotland to Westminster Abbey in 1296 and has been an integral part of British royal ceremonies since.
Constructed from oak, the chair was designed to enclose the Stone of Scone completely; however, over the years, wear and tear have caused parts of the chair to deteriorate, exposing the stone beneath. This chair is not only a throne but a representation of the unification of England and Scotland.
Significance of the Stone of Scone
The Stone of Scone, also known as the Stone of Destiny, is a block of red sandstone previously kept at Scone Abbey in Scotland. Its capture by Edward I during the English invasion of Scotland marked a significant act of domination, making it a vital symbol in the history of Scotland and England.
In 1996, the Stone was returned to Scotland, but it continues to be used in royal ceremonies, emphasizing its importance in the continuity of the monarchy.
Decorations and Artistic Significance
The Coronation Chair has been adorned with intricate decorations over the centuries. Initially painted by Master Walter, Edward I's master painter, the chair featured patterns of birds, foliage, and animals, although much of the original gold leaf has faded over time.
One of the notable elements includes a figure representing a king with his feet resting on a lion, believed to be either Edward the Confessor or Edward I himself. Such artistic details not only enhance the chair's beauty but also signify the authority and divine right of kingship.
Modern Conservation Efforts
Krista Blessley, the Abbey’s paintings conservator, is currently engaged in cleaning and preserving the Coronation Chair. Her efforts aim to uncover and restore overlooked details in the chair’s decoration, ensuring it remains a cherished piece of history for future generations.
As the coronation day approaches, the chair undergoes meticulous conservation work to ensure it is in pristine condition for this momentous occasion.
Graffiti and Historical Marks
The back of the Coronation Chair is not only a testament to its royal significance but also a canvas of history, covered in carvings and graffiti made by visitors and schoolboys over the centuries. This marks the chair as a place of leisure and curiosity for many who have come to admire it.
Among the inscriptions, one notable carving reads, “P. Abbott slept in this chair 5-6 July 1800,” illustrating how the chair has captured the attention of various individuals throughout history.
Current Status and Conservation Efforts
Today, the Coronation Chair stands not merely as a relic of the past but as an active participant in royal history. As it prepares to witness the coronation of King Charles III, ongoing conservation efforts are vital to maintaining its structural integrity and aesthetic beauty.
This chair remains a symbol of tradition, history, and the continuity of the British monarchy. Its story intertwines with the legacies of past monarchs, and as King Charles III takes the throne, the chair will once again play a central role in shaping the future of the royal family.
