Dents were incredibly privileged, and proud, to have made the ceremonial gloves for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation in 1953.
This beautiful glove was made from the finest white kid leather. It was embroidered by the Royal School of Needlework with a raised ‘E II R’ in gold, and a red velvet queenly crown above. The gauntlet cuff is arrayed with an intricate design of roses, acorns and shamrocks, using gold purl wire embroidery, metal strip and sequins.
The glove that is held in our museum, and Queen Elizabeth on her Coronation day on 2nd June 1953.
This glove formed an important part of the Coronation ceremony. During the coronations of the British monarchy, the Sovereign’s right hand glove is removed when the coronation ring is put on. This ring, often referred to as ‘The Wedding Ring of England’ was worn by The Queen on the fourth finger of her right hand in accordance with tradition and signifies her commitment to her realm.
The glove we hold at Dents is the duplicate glove (which she would have tried on for size) which was made ready for her Coronation in 1953. Two Coronation gloves were made (only one glove, on the right hand, is worn by the Monarch) just in case anything went wrong. Luckily it didn’t and she was crowned amidst awesome pageantry.
What do you think of this fascinating historical artefact?
I am organising a Jubilee Flower Festival in St Mary’s Church, Churchstow and would love a copy of a photo and information about the glove and it’s manufacture by Dents to accompany my floral display depicting the Queen’s coronation.
I would be very grateful if you could email or post me anything I could use.
One day I would love to bring my mother, 6 months younger than the Queen, to see the Museum.
With very best wishes, Judy