Westminster Abbey

St Edward’s Chair — The Coronation Chair

c. 1300 (Arm rests, later replacement)

In March 2023, we were approached by the Head of the Abbey Collection and Librarian of Westminster Abbey with a rather unusual request: to cover the arms of the medieval Coronation Chair for the coronation of King Charles III.

St Edward’s Chair, also known as the Coronation Chair, was commissioned by Edward I in 1300. It belongs to the Crown but is kept in the custody of the Dean of Westminster at the Abbey. It was made in oak specifically to enclose the Stone of Destiny beneath it, which King Edward had recently seized during his subjection of Scotland.

Working with a team that included the Head of the Abbey Collection and Librarian, the Abbey’s Head Conservator, a Structural & Panel Conservator, and the studio team we came up with a course of action to replace the 20th century arm rests that had been used for the Queen Elizabeth II coronation with a new set fit for a King.

Upon completion, the new arm rests looked smooth, wrinkle free and sumptuous in their new velvet ready for the coronation.

Treatment Received

  • •The studio took receipt of the new replacement oak armrests designed by a Structural & Panel Conservator.
  • •The new oak armrests were sealed with conservation grade varnish to prevent off gassing.
  • •They were covered with conservation grade polyethylene foam to provide cushioning, followed by an interlining.
  • •The velvet provided by the Abbey was cut on the bias, adhered to the underside of the armrests, and the corners finished with a tulip fold.
  • •The Abbey’s own team of specialist craftsmen fitted the new armrests to the chair.

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