The orb found among the historic British Crown Jewels is specifically known as the Sovereign's Orb, a profoundly symbolic piece of regalia representing Christian dominion and the monarch's divine authority.
The Sovereign's Orb: A Symbol of Divine Authority
The Sovereign's Orb is a magnificent golden globe surmounted by a cross. This iconic design serves as a powerful reminder to the monarch that their power is derived from God. Created in 1661, following the restoration of the monarchy, it became a central component of the new coronation regalia, replacing items destroyed during the Commonwealth period.
It is presented to the monarch during the coronation ceremony, symbolizing their role as Defender of the Faith and their temporal power under God. This spherical object, divided into three sections by bands of jewels, represents the three known continents of the medieval world, all under Christ's dominion.
Key Features and Significance
The Sovereign's Orb is not merely a decorative item; its design and use are steeped in centuries of tradition and meaning.
- Design: A hollow golden sphere, approximately 27 cm in diameter, adorned with numerous precious and semi-precious stones, including diamonds, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and pearls. It is crowned by an amethyst globe, upon which rests a jewelled cross.
- Symbolism: The cross atop the globe signifies that the monarch's rule is under the authority of Christ, while the globe itself represents the Christian world. It underscores the spiritual and temporal responsibilities of the sovereign.
- Historical Context: The orb seen today was made for the coronation of King Charles II. It has been used in every coronation since, including when Queen Mary II was crowned joint sovereign with her husband King William III in 1689.
- Role in Coronation: During the coronation service, the Archbishop of Canterbury places the orb into the monarch's right hand. It is later transferred to the left hand before the monarch is crowned. It is carried in the monarch's left hand during the procession out of Westminster Abbey.
Key Aspects of the Sovereign's Orb
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Sovereign's Orb |
| Year Created | 1661 |
| Material | Gold, adorned with diamonds, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, pearls, and a large amethyst at the top |
| Design | A golden globe surmounted by a jewelled cross |
| Symbolism | Represents the monarch's power derived from God, Christian dominion over the world |
| Use | Held in the monarch's hand during the coronation ceremony, signifying spiritual and temporal rule |
| Historical Note | Used in coronations since Charles II, including Queen Mary II's joint reign with King William III in 1689. |
Its Role in Coronations
The presentation of the Sovereign's Orb is a pivotal moment in the coronation ceremony. It serves as a visual and tangible representation of the monarch's commitment to uphold the Christian faith and govern with divine guidance. As one of the main items of the coronation regalia, alongside the scepter and crown, it physically connects the sovereign to a lineage of rulers and their sacred duties. This enduring symbol reminds the world of the profound spiritual dimension embedded within the British monarchy.
For more information on the British Crown Jewels, you can visit the official Royal Family website.
