Annual Delaware Antiques Show 2019

Other pieces of the coronation costume and regalia have equally rich histories. The recognizable St. Edward’s Crown (fig. 2) , used only on coronation day to crown the monarch, is actually a replica. The original, dating to the eleventh century, was named for Edward the Confessor, the final Anglo-Saxon king of England. It was most likely destroyed by the Parliamentarians in 1649. The “replacement” crown that Queen Elizabeth II wore at her coronation dates to 1661. Other parts of the regalia tell similar stories of conquest, conflict, and inheritance. “Dressing the Part” addresses the role of costumes in reinforcing societal rank and status. The dress that Queen Mary wore to then-Princess Elizabeth’s wedding (fig. 3) asserts her status through the layers of pearls and diamonds; the Cullinan III and IV brooch contains stones that had been part of her own coronation crown in 1911. She also wore the insignia of the Order of the Garter, England’s oldest and most Fig. 2. St. Edward’s Crown. Replicated by Juliette Designs Fig. 3. Dress designed by Michele Clapton for the character of Queen Mary. Costume made and provided by Cosprop. Brooch and royal insignia replicated by Juliette Designs — 31 —