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The Lesser Regalia: Mary and Elizabeth

They were worn by Babylonian and Assyrian monarchs, and it is stated that in Persia, even at the present time, only the Shah and his sons are allowed to wear them. They were used at the coronation of English sovereigns until lately, and are mentioned in accounts of the coronations of Richard II., Henry VIII., Edward VI., Mary and Elizabeth. In the list of the regalia made for the coronation of Charles II., by Sir Robert Vyner, mention is made of bracelets, and these same are now in the Tower, but the enamel has undoubtedly been restored. It is identical in colour and preservation with the similar designs that are to be found on what is known as the "Queen's Ivory Sceptre," made for Mary of Modena. These bracelets are one and a half inches in breadth, and two and a half in diameter. They are made of solid gold, and are lined with crimson velvet, which is fastened on with red silk drawn through holes pierced in the edges. The edges are marked by raised gold fillets with diagonal lines in blue enamel. The emblems of the three kingdoms and the fleurs-de-lys of France are enamelled on the surface of the bracelets. The designs are cut out of gold, forming shallow spaces into which the enamel is fused. This is known as "champlevé" enamel-work. The double roses are coloured a rich crimson, with little green leaves between the outer petals; the thistles have green cups, pale purple heads and dark green leaves. The harps are pale blue with deep gold strings, and the fleurs-de-lys are a deep rich yellow. These emblems are divided from each other by a dark blue four-petalled flower, with gold centre, and on the fastening of each bracelet are three of these little blue flowers. * 2 Sam. i. 10.