An original King George VI Coronation Stool, 1937, limed oak frame, seat covered in aged green velvet trimmed with gold braid. The stool with original painted metal carrying handles, stamped to underside with maker name “’Maple & Co Ltd ***don’ (obscured by handle) ‘CORONATION’ and GVI cypher

Dimensions: height 47cm, width 46cm and depth 32cm

The Coronation, 1937

The Coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth took place on 12^th May 1937.

The ceremony was a stately and traditional affair – inspired by the coronation of King George V.

The 12th May was the date originally scheduled for the coronation of Edward VIII. Edward VIII had wished to have no coronation ceremony. Eventually, he was persuaded but only for a paired down service. His involvement in the event and its planning was limited.

George VI was very much involved with the arrangements for his brother’s coronation. Following the abdication crisis, it was agreed that George VI coronation would be held on the same date in May. In direct contrast to that planned for Edward VIII this new coronation would be on a large scale.

Queen Mary importantly took great interest in the design of the ceremony, including that of the furniture. She ensured it had a traditional feel in keeping with previous coronations.

The furniture for the ceremony was produced by manufacturers based in High Wycombe. During this period, High Wycombe was the centre of English furniture making. Several companies in the town had produced chairs and stools for previous coronation ceremonies.

These stools were used by distinguished guests during the coronation ceremony. Afterwards, they were available for attendees to buy, helping to pay for the event. Originally the fabric would have had a blue tone, but typically over time all have faded to a green.

The event was one of the first large outside broadcasts to be filmed for BBC Television (which was then in its infancy)

Further information

For a similar original George VI coronation stool see the National Trust collection:

https://www.nationaltrustcollections.org.uk/object/1101634

We have a number of pieces of coronation furniture in our store, see:

ROYAL MEMORABILIA/ KING GEORGE VI CORONATION CHAIR: An original George VI coronation chair, 1937

Dimensions: Approximately height 47cm, width 46cm and depth 32cm

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Shipping: Price includes free insured shipping to a UK address. If you are based outside of the UK please email us directly for a cost price shipping quote.

Condition Report: In worn original ‘Country House’ condition. Wear throughout, the velvet fabric with staining, losses and separation to corners, some with darned repairs. Staining visible and losses to braid. The frame with knocks, joints loose/ wobbly, handles with rust marks (see images).