Culture

 

British Queen celebrates

 

The digital unveiling of King Charles III's Coronation Roll marks a historic milestone, as it becomes the first of its kind in history to be accessible online to the public.

Presented to Their Majesties The King and Queen by Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden and Antonia Romeo, this significant document holds the official record of the monarch's accession and crowning.

The Coronation Roll serves as the official state record detailing the monarch's ascent to the throne, the planning involved in the coronation ceremony, and a comprehensive account of the proceedings. Traditionally authored by the Clerk of the Crown in Chancery, these rolls have been crafted since the reign of Edward II in 1308, originally in Latin and French before transitioning to English in the seventeenth century.

King Charles III's Coronation Roll, meticulously authored by Antonia Romeo, features intricate calligraphy by Stephanie Gill and embellishments by heraldic artist Timothy Noad, showcasing national symbols such as the English rose, Scottish thistle, Welsh leek, and Northern Irish Shamrock. Unlike its predecessors, this roll is crafted on high-quality, animal product-free paper.

Deputy Prime Minister Dowden and Antonia Romeo presented both the physical and digital versions of the Coronation Roll to Their Majesties at Buckingham Palace, where they also had the opportunity to view historic rolls belonging to monarchs such as Elizabeth II, Victoria, William and Mary, and Edward II.

Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister Dowden emphasized the significance of the Coronation Roll as a beautifully illustrated testament to the accession and coronation of Their Majesties. He highlighted its role in reflecting the esteemed traditions of the nation, which hold global admiration. By digitizing the Coronation Roll, this cherished tradition is brought into the twenty-first century, offering an unprecedented opportunity for countless individuals to experience it firsthand.

Following the unveiling, Charles III's Coronation Roll will find its place among other historic rolls in the National Archives, ensuring its preservation for future generations to cherish and explore.