The Coronation Chair and Stone of Scone

This book explores the intertwined history of the Coronation Chair and the Stone of Scone, highlighting their significance to British monarchy and heritage.

Now available in paperback, The Coronation Chair and Stone of Scone delves into the rich history, archaeology, and conservation of the iconic Coronation Chair and the Stone of Scone. Constructed between 1297 and 1300 for King Edward I, the Coronation Chair is one of the most remarkable artifacts from the Middle Ages. This chair incorporates a block of sandstone, seized by Edward I at Scone after his victory over the Scots in 1296. The Stone of Scone has a storied past, serving as the symbol of Scottish kings' inaugurations, steeped in mythology and tradition. Since its presentation as a holy relic at Westminster Abbey, it has been the crowning seat for most English monarchs, with the last being HM Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.

The histories of the Chair and the Stone are filled with events that shaped their legacy. They have undergone physical changes, faced vandalism from suffragettes in 1914, and were hidden during World War II. The Stone was infamously stolen in 1950 but was later recovered and restored. Since 1996, it has been on display at Edinburgh Castle. Although the Chair has endured wear over the centuries, it was once adorned with intricate gilding and colorful glass. Despite its significance, it had not been thoroughly documented archaeologically until recent conservation efforts between 2010 and 2012.

This volume presents a comprehensive study that combines historical, archaeological, and conservation evidence, showcasing the Coronation Chair and the Stone of Scone as interconnected artifacts rather than separate entities. Their combined significance to the British Monarchy, as well as their impact on English and Scottish history, is profound. Additionally, the book introduces a second Coronation Chair made for Queen Mary II in 1689 and includes details about various replicas found in Britain and Canada, along with models made over the last two centuries.