The Great Melt: Why Cromwell Destroyed the Crown Jewels
The destruction of the Crown Jewels in 1649, following the execution of Charles I, was a symbolic act of immense significance. Oliver Cromwell and the Parliamentarians did not simply want to dispose of valuable objects; they aimed to eradicate the very symbols of the monarchy and its perceived tyrannical power. The decision to melt down the crowns, break the scepters, and sell off the precious stones was a deliberate and calculated move to dismantle the institution of monarchy itself and proclaim the birth of a new republic. The act was an assertion that the era of kings was over, replaced by a government answerable to the people (or, more accurately, to Parliament). The valuable metals were then converted into coins, thus re-purposing them.
The Republican Objective
The Parliamentarians viewed the monarchy as a system rooted in divine right, a concept they fundamentally rejected. In their eyes, Charles I had abused his power, leading to years of bloody civil war. The destruction of the Crown Jewels was intended to be a final, decisive break with that past. They saw the regalia as emblems of oppression and desired their total annihilation. Cromwell declared the Royal regalia ‘be totally broken’ as being symbolic of the ‘detestable rule of kings’.
Economic Considerations
While the symbolic destruction was paramount, financial motivations also played a role. The English Civil War had been incredibly costly. Selling off the jewels and melting down the gold and silver provided much-needed funds for the new Commonwealth government. The money raised helped to pay off debts, finance the army, and stabilize the fledgling republic.
The Fate of the Jewels
The execution of Charles I in 1649 triggered the abolition of the monarchy by Parliament. The Coronation Regalia, previously housed at Westminster Abbey, were inventoried. Subsequently, most items were either sold or melted down. This act was designed not just to raise funds but to emphatically declare the end of the monarchy’s power and influence. The precious metals were then converted into coins, thus re-purposing them. All the gemstones were removed and sold.
What Survived? The Ampulla and Spoon
Amidst the widespread destruction, a single item miraculously survived: the golden Ampulla and its accompanying spoon. The Ampulla, shaped like an eagle, contained the holy oil used to anoint the monarch during the coronation ceremony. This survival is attributed to the Ampulla being cataloged as silver gilt rather than gold. To this day, the Ampulla and spoon remain crucial components of the coronation ritual, symbols of continuity amidst a history of dramatic change.
The Restoration and New Regalia
The Commonwealth experiment eventually failed, and in 1660, the monarchy was restored with Charles II. However, most of the original Crown Jewels were gone. Charles II commissioned a completely new set of regalia, which largely comprises the Crown Jewels we see today. This new collection was crafted to be even more magnificent than the originals, symbolizing the restored power and glory of the monarchy. St. Edward’s Crown was made for King Charles II and used at his coronation in 1661.
The Enduring Symbolism
The story of the destruction and recreation of the Crown Jewels is a powerful reminder of the tumultuous history of the English monarchy. It speaks to the fragility of power, the enduring allure of symbols, and the constant tension between tradition and revolution. The Crown Jewels, both old and new, continue to captivate and intrigue, offering a tangible connection to the past. For more on engaging with historical narratives, visit the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What were the Crown Jewels originally made of?
The original Crown Jewels consisted of several crowns (including St. Edward’s Crown), scepters, orbs, swords, rings, and other ceremonial items. They were primarily crafted from gold, silver, and adorned with precious gemstones like diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds.
How much were the Crown Jewels worth in 1649?
It’s difficult to provide an exact monetary value for the Crown Jewels in 1649. Valuing historical artifacts is complex, especially considering fluctuations in currency and the unique historical and symbolic value of the objects. However, contemporary records suggest that they were worth a substantial sum, contributing significantly to the funds raised by the Parliamentarians.
Where were the Crown Jewels kept before 1649?
Prior to their destruction, the Crown Jewels were primarily kept at Westminster Abbey, where the coronation ceremonies traditionally took place. They were considered sacred objects, closely associated with the sanctity and legitimacy of the monarchy.
What exactly was melted down?
Cromwell ordered that the orb and sceptres should be broken. All the gemstones were removed and sold, and the precious metal was used to make coins. The crown was melted down and the jewels were removed.
Why was the Ampulla spared?
The Ampulla and spoon survived the destruction because they were mistakenly identified in the inventory as gilded silver rather than solid gold, causing them to be overlooked during the systematic dismantling and melting of the other Crown Jewels.
What happened to the gemstones that were removed from the Crown Jewels?
The precious gemstones that adorned the Crown Jewels were removed and sold separately, further adding to the funds raised by the Parliamentarians. The dispersion of these gems meant that they were scattered across Europe, with their eventual fates largely unknown.
What is St. Edward’s Crown?
St. Edward’s Crown is the most important crown in the Crown Jewels collection. It is used at the moment of coronation, symbolizing the transfer of power from the monarch to the people. The current St. Edward’s Crown was made for the coronation of Charles II in 1661, replacing the original which was destroyed by Cromwell.
Who was Colonel Blood?
Colonel Thomas Blood was an infamous figure known for his audacious attempt to steal the Crown Jewels in 1671. While he did manage to get his hands on some of the regalia, he was quickly apprehended. His daring escapade became legendary, adding another dramatic chapter to the history of the Crown Jewels.
Are the Crown Jewels ever cleaned or repaired?
Yes, the Crown Jewels undergo regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure their preservation. Specialist jewelers and conservators carefully clean and repair the jewels as needed, safeguarding them for future generations. The Royal Collection Trust oversees the care and management of the Crown Jewels.
How much are the current Crown Jewels worth?
The Crown Jewels are considered priceless due to their historical, cultural, and symbolic value. While it is impossible to assign a definitive monetary value, estimates range into the billions of pounds. Their true worth lies in their historical significance and the role they play in the coronation ceremony. Experts estimate that the Imperial State Crown is said to be worth $6.2 billion.
What is the significance of the Tower of London in relation to the Crown Jewels?
Since the 17th century, the Tower of London has served as the primary secure storage location for the Crown Jewels. The Tower’s strong fortifications and historical association with the monarchy make it an ideal place to safeguard these invaluable treasures.
What is the Koh-i-Noor diamond?
The Koh-i-Noor diamond is one of the most famous and controversial diamonds in the world. It is currently set in the Queen Mother’s Crown. Its ownership is disputed, with several countries, including India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, claiming rightful ownership.
What other royal treasures have been lost throughout history?
King John infamously lost the Crown Jewels while trying to cross The Wash estuary in 1216. Rising waters caught his baggage train. The wagons and their contents, including the king’s treasure, were lost.
Did England steal the crown jewels from India?
The solicitor general of India, Ranjit Kumar said, “It was given voluntarily by Ranjit Singh to the British as compensation for help in the Sikh Wars. The Koh-i-Noor is not a stolen object.”
Are the Crown Jewels used for anything other than coronations?
Yes, while the Crown Jewels are primarily associated with coronation ceremonies, some items, such as the Imperial State Crown, are also used on other formal occasions, such as the State Opening of Parliament. This practice highlights the ongoing relevance of the Crown Jewels as symbols of the monarchy. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to see more historical analyses.