Outfits worn by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at the Coronation are to be the focus of 2023’s summer opening at Buckingham Palace.
Charles’ historic vestments, worn by his ancestors to their coronations, will be accompanied by Camilla’s Bruce Oldfield Gown in the Ballroom of the palace.
The purple velvet robe of estate will be joined by the silk coronation tunic – the only new piece created for The King, his naval trousers, as well as the Coronation Glove, Sword Belt and Stole Royal.
A joint portrait of Their Majesties. (Buckingham Palace).
The Stole Royal was presented to Charles by his son and heir, The Prince of Wales; it was worn for the moment of crowning, newly created by the Royal School of Needlework, from a design prepared by the Royal College of Arms.
Inspired by the stole worn by Queen Elizabeth II for her Coronation in 1953, the design features a series of roundels, set in a gold chain framework and applied to cloth of gold. Each roundel features an embroidered image, including the four emblems of the United Kingdom; a dove of peace (representing the Holy Spirit); a Tudor Crown; and a pattern inspired by the Cosmati Pavement in Westminster Abbey, upon which the Anointing of His Majesty took place.
was was crafted in ivory Peau de Soie silk, with silver and gold embroidered floral designs ‘intertwined with celebratory bunting’. On the day, many noticed the personal nods in the design, such as the two embroidered dogs at the hem and family names stitched across the skirt.
Queen Camilla during the coronation at Westminster Abbey
Visitors will get to see these up close, along with The Queen’s purple Robe of State, complete with embroidered bugs and plant motifs created by the Royal School of Needlework.
Moved from the Royal Mews for the occasion, the Diamond Jubilee State Coach will be in the State Entrance for viewing. The coach is the newest in the mews, featuring materials from historic and royal locations and items across the UK, as well as historic events, such as a musket ball from the Battle of Waterloo and wood from the Tudor ship, Mary Rose.
The Gold State Coach, built in 1762, will be available to view as normal in the Royal Mews, which requires a separate ticket. it has been used at every Coronation since that of William IV in 1831.
The Summer Opening of the State Rooms at Buckingham Palace begins 14th July, until 24 September 2023. Buy tickets here.
The interior of the Diamond Jubilee State Coach features historic wood panelling (Uk House of Lords/Flickr)
