The Sceptre and the Star of Africa
G.J. Younghusband & Cyril Davenport, 1919
reproductionpre1931-platerights: pending
A full-page plate of the sovereign's gold sceptre, its head clasping the drop-shaped Star of Africa, the largest clear-cut diamond then known.
Why it matters
It records the moment the greatest of the Cullinan stones was set into the working regalia of a coronation - gem and office fused.
Notice
Six enamelled curves spring open to grip the diamond, so the great stone can be lifted out and worn on its own.
Meaning
Power borrows its light from the stone, not the other way round.
Source
George J. Younghusband and Cyril Davenport, The Crown Jewels of England, London: Cassell and Company, 1919 - Plate VIII view source ↗
Material
gold, diamond
Rights: PENDING. A named source is not the same as registry clearance. Basis on file: PD-pre1931. Shown for this preview only; not offered for sale.
The Regalia · The Famous Stones