King Edward VII's Coronation Mantle 1902
Silk, gold thread | 164 cm (Length) (whole object) | RCIN 75041
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A Coronation Mantle or pallium made of 'cloth of gold'; embroidered coloured floss silks with the national emblems of the United Kingdom including roses of England, thistles of Scotland, shamrocks of Ireland, crowns, eagles, olive branches and passionflowers. Lined in red silk satin. Cut in panels, seamed centre back. Two triangular gores set in, one either side side seam 23 (58.5 cm) from neck line, to create greater width at lower edge. Seam curved over shoulder. Embroidered morse with raised Emblems worked in gilt metal thread and gilt metal wire: two Tudor roses, one either side eagle with laurel? leaves between them, the berries made of tiny red glass imitation rubies stitched to surface. Lined mustard coloured silk faille. Fastening to self covered button on left side, 8 (20.4 cm) from neck line, the corresponding button hole cut in a flap attached lining and made of same fabric. Hand stitched.
Provenance
Worn by King Edward VII at his Coronation at Westminster Abbey, 9 August 1902.
The introduction of coloured silk embroidery, rather than pattern solely through the weave of a brocade fabric, was made through the suggestion of the king's sister Princess Louise, and her involvement with the Royal School of Needlework. Ede & Son lined the mantle.
Displayed at the Tower of London c.1902-33. Sent on long-term loan to the Museum of London in 1933 and later returned. -
Creator(s)
(tailor) -
Medium and techniques
Silk, gold thread
Measurements
164 cm (Length) (whole object)
Place of Production
London [Greater London]
