The royal orb and sceptre are important regalia used in the coronation of monarchs in Britain and some other European countries. They are symbols of the monarch’s power and authority. The orb represents the monarch’s dominion over the world, while the sceptre represents their temporal power and authority to rule. In this article, we’ll explore the history and symbolism behind these iconic items of regalia.
The Royal Orb
The royal orb is a jeweled golden sphere, usually topped with a cross. It is placed in the monarch’s right hand during the coronation ceremony. The orb dates back to the 11th century and the reign of William the Conqueror.
The orb represents the Christian world and the monarch’s dominion over it. The cross on top symbolizes Christ’s authority over the world, that is then entrusted to the king or queen. While medieval monarchs often sought to claim literal global domination, today the orb represents the monarch’s symbolic role as head of the Commonwealth.
The current orb used in British coronations dates from 1661. It is made of solid gold and is decorated with emeralds, rubies, sapphires, diamonds, and pearls. On top is a jeweled cross made from a sapphire. The orb is approximately 16cm in diameter and weighs 1.2kg.
When presenting the orb during the coronation, the Archbishop of Canterbury hands it to the monarch with these words:
“When this worldly glory passeth, May you again this earthly crown exchange for a heavenly kingdom.”
The orb therefore serves as a reminder to the monarch of their mortal nature and that their reign is divinely ordained and temporary. They ultimately represent God’s authority on Earth.
The Royal Sceptre
The royal sceptre is a jeweled staff held in the monarch’s right hand during the coronation ceremony. The sceptre represents the sovereign’s temporal power and authority to rule.
Like the orb, the sceptre has been used in coronations since the 11th century. The sceptre holds a practical purpose too – the monarch would use it to swear oaths and make pronouncements during the coronation ceremony.
There are two sceptres used in the British coronation. The Sovereign’s Sceptre with Cross represents the monarch’s temporal power under God. The ornate flared base represents the monarch’s earthly authority, with four large rubies and the royal coat of arms. Above this is a globe, representing the monarch’s earthly dominion. Surmounting the orb is a dazzling diamond-encrusted cross, representing God’s divine authority over the sovereign.
The Sovereign’s Sceptre with Dove, meanwhile, represents the spiritual guidance and mercy the monarch is expected to provide to their subjects. This sceptre has the world painted on it, above which a dove holding an orb and cross sits, representing the Holy Spirit.
Both sceptres date from 1661, with the crowns on top of each sceptre dating from 1911. They are made from solid gold and contain diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, rubies and pearls in intricate decorative designs.
When handed to the monarch during the coronation, the sceptre is accompanied by these words reminding the sovereign of their duties:
“Receive this Rod, the ensign of kingly power and justice.
Symbolism in the Coronation
The orb and sceptres feature in several key moments during the coronation:
- The new monarch processes into Westminster Abbey holding the orb and sceptre in their right hand.
- While seated in the Coronation Chair, the orb and sceptre are briefly given to the Archbishop of Canterbury while the monarch takes their coronation oaths.
- The Archbishop then returns the sceptre with the cross to the right hand of the monarch and the orb to their left hand.
- At the actual moment of crowning, the Archbishop lowers St Edward’s Crown onto the monarch’s head, while they continue to hold the sceptres.
- After being crowned, the monarch exchanges the sceptre with the dove for the sceptre with the cross.
- At the end of the ceremony, the orb and sceptre are returned to the altar, symbolizing that the monarch’s reign has begun.
This carefully choreographed ritual conveys the solemn and sacred nature of the coronation. The touching of the orb and sceptres by both the monarch and the Archbishop signifies the transfer of power and responsibility to the new sovereign.
Other Royal Orbs and Sceptres
Other monarchies also incorporate orbs and sceptres into their coronation regalia:
| Country | Royal Orb | Royal Sceptre(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Denmark | Globus Cruciger, made of gold, surmounted by a cross of pearls and gemstones. | Sceptre of the Realm, made of gold, studded with gemstones. |
| Norway | The Globus Cruciger, added to the regalia in 1818. | King’s Sceptre, made of silver, gifted in 1818. |
| Sweden | Riksäpplet (The Sovereign’s Orb), added to regalia in 1975. | Two sceptres – the Sovereign’s Sceptre (1875) and the Sceptre of the Real (1560). |
| Spain | The Sovereign’s Orb, gold orb surmounted by a cross, badge of the Golden Fleece. | The Sovereign’s Sceptre, symbol of royal authority. |
The symbolism of representing power, authority and dominion over the land remains consistent. However, each monarchy incorporates unique flourishes and styles representative of their nation.
The Royal Orb and Sceptre in Use
While their main function is symbolic during coronations, the royal orb and sceptres are sometimes also prominent in other ceremonies:
- At the annual State Opening of Parliament, the monarch processes into the House of Lords holding the orb and sceptre.
- During the procession to their thrones at coronation banquets, such as the Champion’s Celebration, monarchs will carry the orb and sceptre.
- For formal portraits, the monarch is often depicted holding the orb and sceptre as symbols of office.
- On certain coats of arms and royal banners, the orb and sceptre may feature alongside the crown.
- In sculptures, paintings, and stained glass found in homes of the monarch like Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, and Palace of Holyroodhouse.
Therefore, while their primary role is during the coronation, the royal orb and sceptre continue as meaningful symbols of the monarch’s sovereignty throughout their reign.
Conclusion
The royal orb and sceptre are iconic coronation regalia representing the monarch’s power and authority to rule. Centuries old in tradition, these sacred objects are solemnly handed to the monarch during their coronation ceremony as symbolic of their solemn responsibilities and divine right to govern. The orb signifies the monarch’s dominion over the land while the sceptre shows their temporal authority. These ornate objects remind the sovereign of their duties to provide justice, mercy and guidance throughout their reign.