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SIR NORMAN HARTNELL (1901-79)

Embroidery sample of the Fern of New Zealand

1952-53

Wood, silk satin, silk thread, crystals | 25 cm (diameter) | RCIN 300023

These hoops contain the original samples for each of the national emblems which would be embroidered onto the Coronation Gown. Together with his assistant, Ian Thomas, Hartnell carefully researched each emblem to ensure it was correct and each was then verified by the Earl Marshal, who was responsible for who was officially responsible for organising the Coronation. The embroidery was carried out in the embroidery workroom at Hartnell’s couture house in Bruton Street, London under the direction of Miss Edie Dulie and took many hours for the team of embroideresses to complete. In total the Coronation Gown took more than five months to make.

The embroidery samples include:
Tudor Rose of England
Thistle of Scotland
Leek of Wales
Shamrock of Northern Ireland
Wattle of Australia
Maple Leaf of Canada
Silver Fern of New Zealand
Lotus Flower of India
Wheat, Cotton and Jute of Pakistan
Protea of South Africa

    The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.