As the nation eagerly anticipates the King’s coronation, we invite you to view our objects of Royal interest. We have carefully curated a selection of fascinating pieces we believe fit in perfectly with the King’s Coronation. Whether it be supreme quality, exotic woods or something truly rare we believe we have something to suit all tastes for this historical event. As spectators from around the world tune into the event where King Charles III is coronated upon St. Edwards Chair, the historical artefacts that surround his person each have their own significance, we have listed some of the important Royal Regalia below; 

The Coronation Chair, also known as St Edward’s Chair or King Edward’s Chair, is an antique wooden chair that has been used in coronations since the 13th century. Originally commissioned in 1296 by King Edward I to contain the coronation stone of Scotland (the stone of destiny) The Chair was named after Edward the Confessor (1003-1066).

The Coronation Spoon is the oldest piece of regalia dating to the 12 century. Its existence is astonishing as during the English civil war (1642-51) all coronation regalia were ordered to be destroyed by Oliver Cromwell. The majority of other pieces were believed to have been destroyed or melted down.

The Coronation Crown, also known as St Edward’s Crown is the foremost centrepiece of the crown jewels named after Saint Edward the Confessor. The current St Edward’s Crown was made for Charles II In 1661. It is made from solid gold decorated with 444 precious and semi-precious stones. Interestingly after 1689, it was not used to crown any monarch for over 200 years until the tradition was revived by George V and has continued since.

The Coronation Sceptre, best known for the spectacular 530.2-carat diamond of which it houses was cut from the largest diamond ever found the 3,106-carat Cullinan diamond. The sceptre dates to Charles II and represents the monarchs’ temporal power.

The Coronation Orb, the sovereign orb dates to around 1661 and represents the Christian world and the belief that the monarch’s power is derived from God. It is placed in the Sovereign’s right hand during the investiture portion of the coronation. It features 9 emeralds, 18 rubies, 9 sapphires, 365 diamonds and 375 pearls.

Did you know? The pieces of regalia above are considered priceless and therefore are not insured! Believe it or not, there has been only one known attempt to steal them in 1671, Thomas Blood along with several others went to the Tower of London in an attempt to procure the items, it is believed Blood hid the orb in his pants after overpowering the keeper of the jewels and briefly gained possession of the items. In an incredible turn of events after his capture Charles II pardoned him as he was amused by Blood’s audacity!

For our own piece of ‘Royal Regalia’ we are absolutely delighted to introduce our featured object of this month’s newsletter. With a special royal connection, we have this breathtaking Vanity Box which is believed to be a gift from Her Royal Highness Queen Victoria to Lady Elizabeth Lucy Cuffe. This dressing case is a true piece of British history which is crafted in Coromandel with brass edging having the Countess coronet and monogram. The vanity box was manufactured by Ortner and Houle of St. James, London known engravers to Queen Victoria and the Royal Family with applied gold accessories by Tween and Purnell.  

For our second piece of ‘Royal Regalia‘, from our Tea Caddy collection, we are thrilled to be offering this very rare ‘God Save the King’ sterling silver King George II repousse tea caddy. The tea caddy dating to circa 1740 with hallmarks for John Pollock of London. 

Join us in celebrating the upcoming coronation of the new British King through the release of our latest collection.

Visit us at The Decorative Antiques and Textiles Fair in Battersea, London, to discover a carefully curated selection of high-quality furniture and rare works of art. From May 10th to May 14th, our knowledgeable staff is at your service to help you select exquisite pieces to elevate your home or collection.

We are also delighted to invite you to the upcoming Petworth Park Antiques & Fine Art Fair, which is returning for its ninth edition on 19-21 May 2023. This prestigious event will be held at the National Trust property in the charming market town of Petworth, where it has successfully attracted thousands of visitors over the years.

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