Coronation Chair

Coronation Chair

The Coronation Chair is a wooden chair used in the coronation of British monarchs. It has been used in the coronation of every English and British monarch since 1308. The chair is one of the most famous and historic objects in the Westminster Abbey, where it is kept.

History

The Coronation Chair was made in 1307-1308 for King Edward II, by Walter of Exeter, the King's carpenter, and Thomas of Canterbury, a London joiner. It was used for the first time at the coronation of King Edward II on 25 January 1308. The chair has been used in the coronation of almost every English and British monarch since then, with the exception of Lady Jane Grey, Edward V, and Edward VIII, who were either never crowned or abdicated before their coronation.

The chair has undergone several repairs and restorations over the centuries, including a major restoration in 1873 by George Gilbert Scott, a renowned British architect. In 1950, the chair was attacked by a vandal, who drew a swastika on the chair and damaged the St. Edward's Sapphire, a large sapphire set into the chair.

Design and Construction

The Coronation Chair is made of oak wood and is decorated with gilding and carvings. The chair has a high back and a curved seat, and is adorned with St. Edward's Jewels, a collection of precious stones and pearls. The chair also features the St. Edward's Sapphire, which is said to have been worn by King Edward the Confessor.

The chair is constructed in a Gothic style, which was popular during the 14th century. The chair's design is believed to have been influenced by the Canterbury Cathedral, where Thomas Becket, the Archbishop of Canterbury, was murdered.

Coronation Ceremonies

The Coronation Chair plays a central role in the coronation ceremony of British monarchs. The chair is placed on a platform in Westminster Abbey, and the monarch is seated in it during the ceremony. The Archbishop of Canterbury then anoints the monarch with holy oil, and crowns them with the St. Edward's Crown.

The coronation ceremony is a ritual that has been performed for centuries, and is steeped in tradition and pageantry. The ceremony is attended by dignitaries and royalty from around the world, and is broadcast on television.

Conservation and Restoration

The Coronation Chair has undergone several conservation and restoration projects over the years. In 1873, the chair was restored by George Gilbert Scott, who added a new upholstery and repaired damaged areas of the chair.

In the 20th century, the chair was conserved by the Victoria and Albert Museum, which removed old varnish and restored the chair's original gilding. The chair is now kept in a glass case in Westminster Abbey, where it is protected from damage and vandalism.

Cultural Significance

The Coronation Chair is one of the most famous and historic objects in the United Kingdom, and is a symbol of the British monarchy. The chair has played a central role in the coronation of British monarchs for centuries, and is steeped in tradition and pageantry.

The chair has also been the subject of numerous artworks and literary works, including paintings and poems. It is considered an important part of British history and culture, and is a popular tourist attraction in Westminster Abbey. Category:Coronation Chair