The British monarchy is drenched in symbolism.
The late Queen Elizabeth II was well known for masterfully using her wardrobe as an alternative means of soft diplomacy, as well as identity.
When the emblem for King Charles III’s coronation was unveiled by Buckingham Palace, it’s no big surprise that subtle symbolism was threaded throughout its design.
The emblem above is the logo that’ll be used in all official marketing around the coronation but it’s not just decorative.
CNN breaks it down;
- Floral motifs given Charles is known for being a crusader for the environment;
- a rose for England
- a shamrock for Northern Ireland
- a thistle for Scotland
- a daffodil for Wales.
- The four flowers represent the four nations of the UK and make up the shape of St Edward’s Crown, which will be placed on the King Charles’ head on May 6, 2023
- The color palate of red, white and blue – a clear nod to the Union Flag
The flowers were chosen by British former Apple design maestro Jony Ive. Ive confirmed the design his team came up with was,
inspired by King Charles’ love of the planet, nature, and his deep concern for the natural world.”
The emblem speaks to the happy optimism of spring and celebrates the beginning of this new Carolean era for the United Kingdom.
The gentle modesty of these natural forms combine to define an emblem that acknowledges both the joyful and profound importance of this occasion.”
But not everyone is so thrilled about the upcoming coronation and discreet graphic messaging isn’t doing much to change that. King Charles has lately been greeted by anti-monarchy protesters with signs that say,
Not My King.”
Graham Smith, from the campaign group Republic, questioned the need for what he called,
a pointless coronation.
We believe the British public should be asked, do you want Charles or a choice?
The tide is starting to turn against the monarchy and we need a serious debate about its future.”
King Charles seems unfazed by anti-monarchists turning up but he must be aware this was something you never saw much of when his mother was alive.
A group of around 20 anti-monarchists held up signs spelling out 'Not My King', and one protester shouted "why are you wasting money on a coronation, Charles?" https://t.co/G6AWnQyLLh
— Sky News (@SkyNews) February 16, 2023
(Photo, Buckingham Palace handout; via CNN)
