A throne is the seat of state of a potentate or dignitary , especially the seat occupied by a sovereign (or viceroy ) on state occasions; or the seat occupied by a pope or bishop on ceremonial occasions. "Throne" in an abstract sense can also refer to the monarchy itself, an instance of metonymy , and is also used in many expressions such as " the power behind the throne ".
120-429: A throne is a symbol of divine and secular rule and the establishment of a throne as a defining sign of the claim to power and authority. It can be with a high backrest and feature heraldic animals or other decorations as adornment and as a sign of power and strength. A throne can be placed underneath a canopy or baldachin . The throne can stand on steps or a dais and is thus always elevated. The expression "ascend (mount)
240-574: A 15th-century manuscript illumination the sovereign Grand Master of the Knights Hospitaller in Rhodes sits in state to receive a presentation copy of the author's book. His seat is raised on a carpet-covered dais and backed with a richly embroidered dosser (French, dos ). Under his feet is a cushion, such as protected the feet of the King of France when he presided at a lit de justice . The King of France
360-587: A Hindu princely state 's ruler, while among Muslim princes or Nawabs, save exceptions such as the Travancore State royal family, the term musnad ( [ˈməsnəd] ), also spelt as musnud , was more common, even though both seats were similar. The Throne of Jahangir was built by Mughal emperor Jahangir in 1602 and is located at the Diwan-i-Khas (hall of private audience) at the Agra Fort . The Peacock Throne
480-497: A basilica was secular public hall. Thus, the term basilica may also refer to a church designed after the manner of the ancient Roman basilica. Many of the churches built by the emperor Constantine the Great and Justinian are of the basilica style. Some other prelates besides bishops are permitted the use of thrones, such as abbots and abbesses . These are often simpler than the thrones used by bishops and there may be restrictions on
600-449: A basilica was secular public hall. Thus, the term basilica may also refer to a church designed after the manner of the ancient Roman basilica. Many of the churches built by the emperor Constantine the Great and Justinian are of the basilica style. Some other prelates besides bishops are permitted the use of thrones, such as abbots and abbesses . These are often simpler than the thrones used by bishops and there may be restrictions on
720-484: A canopy of estate. Francisco Franco , the ruler of Spain from 1939 to 1975, frequently walked under a baldachin after formally proclaiming Spain a monarchy—a privilege he appropriated as de facto regent for life. In Spanish Holy Week processions the sculptures of Virgin Mary, shown as Queen of Sorrow, use to go on their floats under canopies with embroideries Madr with gold or silver yarn The surname Baldacchino comes from
840-413: A canopy or baldachin . The throne can stand on steps or a dais and is thus always elevated. The expression "ascend (mount) the throne" takes its meaning from the steps leading up to the dais or platform, on which the throne is placed, being formerly comprised in the word's significance. Coats of arms or insignia can feature on throne or canopy and represent the dynasty . Even in the physical absence of
960-562: A dedicated throne hall, the Magnaura , included elaborate automatons of singing birds and moving animals. The 10th-century throne of Ivan "the Terrible" (r. 1533-1584), dating from the mid-16th century, it is a product of West European Renaissance . It is shaped as a high-backed chair with arm rests, and adorned with ivory and walrus bone plaques intricately carved with mythological, heraldic and life scenes. Some carvings, depicting scenes from
1080-460: A dedicated throne hall, the Magnaura , included elaborate automatons of singing birds and moving animals. The 10th-century throne of Ivan "the Terrible" (r. 1533-1584), dating from the mid-16th century, it is a product of West European Renaissance . It is shaped as a high-backed chair with arm rests, and adorned with ivory and walrus bone plaques intricately carved with mythological, heraldic and life scenes. Some carvings, depicting scenes from
1200-603: A derivation from the PIE root *dher- "to support" (also in dharma "post, sacrificial pole"). Early Greek Διὸς θρόνους ( Dios thronous ) was a term for the "support of the heavens", i.e. the axis mundi , which term when Zeus became an anthropomorphic god was imagined as the "seat of Zeus". In Ancient Greek, a "thronos" was a specific but ordinary type of chair with a footstool , a high status object but not necessarily with any connotations of power. The Achaeans (according to Homer ) were known to place additional, empty thrones in
1320-556: A derivation from the PIE root *dher- "to support" (also in dharma "post, sacrificial pole"). Early Greek Διὸς θρόνους ( Dios thronous ) was a term for the "support of the heavens", i.e. the axis mundi , which term when Zeus became an anthropomorphic god was imagined as the "seat of Zeus". In Ancient Greek, a "thronos" was a specific but ordinary type of chair with a footstool , a high status object but not necessarily with any connotations of power. The Achaeans (according to Homer ) were known to place additional, empty thrones in
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#17328370320541440-513: A false tradition asserts they are the columns from the Temple of Jerusalem . The lowest parts of the four columns of Bernini's Baldachin have a helical groove, and the middle and upper sections of the columns are covered in olive and bay branches, which are populated with a myriad of bees and small putti. Pope Urban VIII's family coat of arms, those of the Barberini family, with their signature bees, are at
1560-637: A gilded throne. The queens of France spent a great deal of time in their chambre , where they received the ladies of the court at the morning lever and granted private audiences. By the time Marie Antoinette escaped the mob from this bedroom, such state beds, with the elaborate etiquette they embodied, were already falling out of use. A state bed with a domed tester designed in 1775–76 by Robert Adam for Lady Child at Osterley Park and another domed state bed, delivered by Thomas Chippendale for Sir Edwin Lascelles at Harewood House , Yorkshire, in 1773 are two of
1680-639: A great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away" ( Revelation 20:11 ). The Apostle Paul speaks of " thrones " in Colossians 1:16 . Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite , in his work De Coelesti Hierarchia (VI.7), interprets this as referring to one of the ranks of angels (corresponding to the Hebrew Arelim or Ophanim ). This concept was expanded upon by Thomas Aquinas in his Summa Theologica (I.108), wherein
1800-478: A great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away" ( Revelation 20:11 ). The Apostle Paul speaks of " thrones " in Colossians 1:16 . Pseudo-Dionysius the Areopagite , in his work De Coelesti Hierarchia (VI.7), interprets this as referring to one of the ranks of angels (corresponding to the Hebrew Arelim or Ophanim ). This concept was expanded upon by Thomas Aquinas in his Summa Theologica (I.108), wherein
1920-497: A number of throne chairs empty. Many of these thrones—such as China's Dragon Throne —survive today as historic examples of nation's previous government. Thrones were found throughout the canon of ancient furniture . The depiction of monarchs and deities as seated on chairs is a common topos in the iconography of the Ancient Near East . The word throne itself is from Greek θρόνος ( thronos ), "seat, chair", in origin
2040-437: A number of throne chairs empty. Many of these thrones—such as China's Dragon Throne —survive today as historic examples of nation's previous government. Thrones were found throughout the canon of ancient furniture . The depiction of monarchs and deities as seated on chairs is a common topos in the iconography of the Ancient Near East . The word throne itself is from Greek θρόνος ( thronos ), "seat, chair", in origin
2160-466: A person holding the title King , Queen , Emperor , or Empress sits in a nation using a monarchy political system, although there are a few exceptions, notably with regards to religious officials such as the pope and bishops of various sects of the Christian faith. Changing geo-political tides have resulted in the collapse of several dictatorial and autocratic governments, which in turn have left
2280-578: A select public, but not intended for sleeping in, evolved during the second half of the seventeenth century, developing the medieval tradition of receiving visitors in the bedroom, which had become the last and most private room of the standard suite of rooms in a Baroque apartment. Louis XIV developed the rituals of receptions in his state bedchamber, the petit lever to which only a handful of his court élite might expect to be invited. The other monarchs of Europe soon imitated his practice; even his staunchest enemy, William III of England , had his "grooms of
2400-627: A seven-stepped dais with a proscenium arch above and the symbol of the imperial family behind (the two-headed eagle ). Peter I's Room (the "Smaller Throne Room") is modest in comparison to the former. The throne was made for Empress Anna Ivanovna in London. There is also a throne in the Grand Throne Room of the Peterhof Palace . In some countries with a monarchy, thrones are still used and have important symbolic and ceremonial meaning. Among
2520-461: A seven-stepped dais with a proscenium arch above and the symbol of the imperial family behind (the two-headed eagle ). Peter I's Room (the "Smaller Throne Room") is modest in comparison to the former. The throne was made for Empress Anna Ivanovna in London. There is also a throne in the Grand Throne Room of the Peterhof Palace . In some countries with a monarchy, thrones are still used and have important symbolic and ceremonial meaning. Among
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#17328370320542640-498: A special chair which in church referred to by written sources as a "throne", or “cathedra” (Latin for 'chair') and is intended to allow such high-ranking religious officials a place to sit in their place of worship. The other use for throne refers to a belief among many of the world's monotheistic and polytheistic religions that the deity or deities that they worship are seated on a throne. Such beliefs go back to ancient times, and can be seen in surviving artwork and texts which discuss
2760-559: A structure is more correctly called a ciborium when it is sufficiently architectural in form. Baldachins are often supported on columns, especially when they are disconnected from an enclosing wall. A cloth of honour or cloth of estate is a simpler cloth hanging vertically behind the throne, usually continuing to form a canopy. It can also be used for similar canopies in interior design, for example above beds, and for processional canopies used in formal state ceremonies such as coronations, held up by four or more men with poles attached to
2880-425: A symbolic chair with little or no precious materials incorporated into the design. When used in a religious sense, throne can refer to one of two distinct uses. The first use derives from the practice in churches of having a bishop or higher-ranking religious official ( archbishop , pope , etc.) sit on a special chair which in church referred to by written sources as a "throne", or “cathedra” (Latin for 'chair') and
3000-442: A throne is tied to a philosophical or religious ideology held by the nation or people in question, which serves a dual role in unifying the people under the reigning monarch and connecting the monarch upon the throne to his or her predecessors, who sat upon the throne previously. Accordingly, many thrones are typically held to have been constructed or fabricated out of rare or hard to find materials that may be valuable or important to
3120-724: A throne typically exists in a civilization, nation, tribe, or other politically designated group that is organized or governed under a monarchical system. Throughout much of human history societies have been governed under monarchical systems, in the beginning as autocratic systems and later evolved in most cases as constitutional monarchies within liberal democratic systems, resulting in a wide variety of thrones that have been used by given heads of state. These have ranged from stools in places such as in Africa to ornate chairs and bench-like designs in Europe and Asia, respectively. Often, but not always,
3240-414: A toilet is often jokingly referred to as "a throne" (namely, the "porcelain throne"). Baldachin A baldachin , or baldaquin (from Italian : baldacchino ), is a canopy of state typically placed over an altar or throne . It had its beginnings as a cloth canopy, but in other cases it is a sturdy, permanent architectural feature, particularly over high altars in cathedrals , where such
3360-419: A wide variety of thrones that have been used by given heads of state. These have ranged from stools in places such as in Africa to ornate chairs and bench-like designs in Europe and Asia, respectively. Often, but not always, a throne is tied to a philosophical or religious ideology held by the nation or people in question, which serves a dual role in unifying the people under the reigning monarch and connecting
3480-968: Is always adorned with the pattern and motif of the Vietnamese dragon , which is the exclusive and privileged symbol of the Vietnamese emperors. The last existing imperial throne in Vietnam is the throne of the Nguyễn emperors placed in the Hall of Supreme Harmony at the Imperial City of Huế . It is designated as a national treasure of Vietnam . In Vietnamese folk religion , the gods, deities and ancestral spirits are believed to seat figuratively on thrones at places of worship. Therefore, on Vietnamese altars, there are various types of liturgical "throne" often decorated with red paint and golden gilding. The Phoenix Throne (御座/어좌 eojwa )
3600-661: Is always adorned with the pattern and motif of the Vietnamese dragon , which is the exclusive and privileged symbol of the Vietnamese emperors. The last existing imperial throne in Vietnam is the throne of the Nguyễn emperors placed in the Hall of Supreme Harmony at the Imperial City of Huế . It is designated as a national treasure of Vietnam . In Vietnamese folk religion , the gods, deities and ancestral spirits are believed to seat figuratively on thrones at places of worship. Therefore, on Vietnamese altars, there are various types of liturgical "throne" often decorated with red paint and golden gilding. The Phoenix Throne (御座/어좌 eojwa )
3720-421: Is described in 1 Kings 10:18–20 : "Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with the best gold.. The throne had six steps, and the top of the throne was round behind: and there were stays on either side on the place of the seat, and two lions stood beside the stays. And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other upon the six steps: there was not the like made in any kingdom." In
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3840-421: Is described in 1 Kings 10:18–20 : "Moreover the king made a great throne of ivory, and overlaid it with the best gold.. The throne had six steps, and the top of the throne was round behind: and there were stays on either side on the place of the seat, and two lions stood beside the stays. And twelve lions stood there on the one side and on the other upon the six steps: there was not the like made in any kingdom." In
3960-416: Is intended to allow such high-ranking religious officials a place to sit in their place of worship. The other use for throne refers to a belief among many of the world's monotheistic and polytheistic religions that the deity or deities that they worship are seated on a throne. Such beliefs go back to ancient times, and can be seen in surviving artwork and texts which discuss the idea of ancient gods (such as
4080-547: Is placed in the basilica for the pope's use whenever he presides over a liturgical ceremony. Prior to the liturgical reforms that occurred in the wake of the Second Vatican Council , a huge removable canopied throne was placed above an equally removable dais in the choir side of the "Altar of the Confession" (the high altar above the tomb of St Peter and beneath the monumental bronze baldachin ); this throne stood between
4200-430: Is placed in the basilica for the pope's use whenever he presides over a liturgical ceremony. Prior to the liturgical reforms that occurred in the wake of the Second Vatican Council , a huge removable canopied throne was placed above an equally removable dais in the choir side of the "Altar of the Confession" (the high altar above the tomb of St Peter and beneath the monumental bronze baldachin ); this throne stood between
4320-606: Is the term used to identify the throne of the king of Korea . In an abstract sense, the Phoenix Throne also refers rhetorically to the head of state of the Joseon dynasty (1392–1897) and the Empire of Korea (1897–1910). The throne is located at Gyeongbok Palace in Seoul. The Chrysanthemum Throne ( 皇位 , kōi , lit. "Imperial position/rank") is the term used to identify the throne of
4440-405: Is the term used to identify the throne of the king of Korea . In an abstract sense, the Phoenix Throne also refers rhetorically to the head of state of the Joseon dynasty (1392–1897) and the Empire of Korea (1897–1910). The throne is located at Gyeongbok Palace in Seoul. The Chrysanthemum Throne ( 皇位 , kōi , lit. "Imperial position/rank") is the term used to identify the throne of
4560-644: The Achaemenid era to the last Iranian dynasty Pahlavi , the throne was used for sitting shahs . The word "throne" in English translations of the Bible renders Hebrew כסא kissē' . The pharaoh of the Exodus is described as sitting on a throne (Exodus 11:5, 12:29), but mostly the term refers to the throne of the kingdom of Israel , often called the "throne of David " or "throne of Solomon ". The literal throne of Solomon
4680-446: The Achaemenid era to the last Iranian dynasty Pahlavi , the throne was used for sitting shahs . The word "throne" in English translations of the Bible renders Hebrew כסא kissē' . The pharaoh of the Exodus is described as sitting on a throne (Exodus 11:5, 12:29), but mostly the term refers to the throne of the kingdom of Israel , often called the "throne of David " or "throne of Solomon ". The literal throne of Solomon
4800-581: The Agra Fort . The Peacock Throne was the seat of the Mughal emperors of India. It was commissioned in the early 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan and was located in the Red Fort of Delhi. The original throne was subsequently captured and taken as a war trophy in 1739 by the Persian king Nadir Shah and has been lost ever since. A replacement throne based on the original was commissioned afterwards and existed until
4920-622: The Book of Esther (5:3), the same word refers to the throne of the king of Persia. The God of Israel himself is frequently described as sitting on a throne, referred to outside of the Bible as the Throne of God , in the Psalms , and in a vision Isaiah (6:1), and notably in Isaiah 66:1, YHWH says of himself "The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool" (this verse is alluded to by Matthew 5:34-35). In
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5040-431: The Book of Esther (5:3), the same word refers to the throne of the king of Persia. The God of Israel himself is frequently described as sitting on a throne, referred to outside of the Bible as the Throne of God , in the Psalms , and in a vision Isaiah (6:1), and notably in Isaiah 66:1, YHWH says of himself "The heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool" (this verse is alluded to by Matthew 5:34-35). In
5160-575: The Indian Rebellion of 1857 . Maharaja Ranjit Singh's throne was made by the goldsmith Hafez Muhammad Multani about 1820 to 1830. Made of wood and resin core, covered with sheets of repoussé, chased and engraved gold. The Golden Throne or Chinnada Simhasana or Ratna Simahasana in Kannada is the royal seat of the rulers of the Kingdom of Mysore . The Golden Throne is kept at Mysore Palace. In Burma,
5280-447: The Indian subcontinent , the traditional Sanskrit name for the throne was siṃhāsana (lit., seat of a lion). In the Mughal times the throne was called Shāhī takht ( [ˈʃaːhiː ˈtəxt] ). The term gadi or gaddi ( Hindustani pronunciation: [ˈɡəd̪ːi] , also called rājgaddī ) referred to a seat with a cushion used as a throne by Indian princes. That term was usually used for
5400-411: The Indian subcontinent , the traditional Sanskrit name for the throne was siṃhāsana (lit., seat of a lion). In the Mughal times the throne was called Shāhī takht ( [ˈʃaːhiː ˈtəxt] ). The term gadi or gaddi ( Hindustani pronunciation: [ˈɡəd̪ːi] , also called rājgaddī ) referred to a seat with a cushion used as a throne by Indian princes. That term was usually used for the throne of
5520-572: The Old Testament , Book of Kings I explicits the throne of Solomon: "Then the king made a great throne covered with ivory and overlaid with fine gold. The throne had six steps, and its back had a rounded top. On both sides of the seat were armrests, with a lion standing beside each of them. Twelve lions stood on the six steps, one at either end of each step" in Chapter 10 18-20. In the New Testament ,
5640-411: The Old Testament , Book of Kings I explicits the throne of Solomon: "Then the king made a great throne covered with ivory and overlaid with fine gold. The throne had six steps, and its back had a rounded top. On both sides of the seat were armrests, with a lion standing beside each of them. Twelve lions stood on the six steps, one at either end of each step" in Chapter 10 18-20. In the New Testament ,
5760-509: The Pali term pallaṅka , which means "couch" or "sofa." The Burmese palin in pre-colonial times was used to seat the sovereign and his main consort, and is today used to seat religious leaders such as sayadaws , and images of the Buddha. Royal thrones are called yazapalin (ရာဇပလ္လင်), while thrones seating images or statues of the Buddha are called gaw pallin (ဂေါ့ပလ္လင်) or samakhan (စမ္မခဏ်), from
5880-600: The Roman Catholic Church , the pope is an elected monarch , both under canon law as supreme head of the church , and under international law as the head of state —styled "sovereign pontiff"—of the Vatican City State (the sovereign state within the city of Rome established by the 1929 Lateran Treaty ). Until 1870, the pope was the elected monarch of the Papal States , which for centuries constituted one of
6000-423: The Roman Catholic Church , the pope is an elected monarch , both under canon law as supreme head of the church , and under international law as the head of state —styled "sovereign pontiff"—of the Vatican City State (the sovereign state within the city of Rome established by the 1929 Lateran Treaty ). Until 1870, the pope was the elected monarch of the Papal States , which for centuries constituted one of
6120-595: The Speaker's House until the 1940s, when it was moved out as too opulent to be there during the difficult times of the Second World War . It was probably sold during a government modernisation, somehow appeared in an auction in Northamptonshire, and was bought for a family for £100 in the 1960s. They used it for thirty years, recognising that it was important but not knowing where it came from until an interiors expert at
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#17328370320546240-512: The Twelve Olympians ) seated on thrones. In the major Abrahamic religions of Judaism , Christianity , and Islam , the Throne of Yahweh is attested to in religious scriptures and teachings, although the origin, nature, and idea of the Throne of Yahweh in these religions differs according to the given religious ideology practiced. In the west, a throne is most identified as the seat upon which
6360-500: The Victoria and Albert Museum published an appeal to try to find it. The bed was bought back from the family and returned to Speaker's House after restoration and with new hangings. It can be viewed during tours of the Speaker's House. Pope Urban VIII commissioned Gian Lorenzo Bernini to design and construct a large structure that would be placed over the main altar, believed to be above
6480-720: The emperor of Japan . The term also can refer to very specific seating, such as the takamikura (高御座) throne in the Shishin-den at Kyoto Imperial Palace . The throne of the Ryukyu Kingdom is located in Shuri Castle , Naha. During the Russian Empire , the throne in St. George's Hall (the "Greater Throne Room") in the Winter Palace was regarded as the throne of Russia. It sits atop
6600-400: The emperor of Japan . The term also can refer to very specific seating, such as the takamikura (高御座) throne in the Shishin-den at Kyoto Imperial Palace . The throne of the Ryukyu Kingdom is located in Shuri Castle , Naha. During the Russian Empire , the throne in St. George's Hall (the "Greater Throne Room") in the Winter Palace was regarded as the throne of Russia. It sits atop
6720-434: The monarchy itself, an instance of metonymy , and is also used in many expressions such as " the power behind the throne ". A throne is a symbol of divine and secular rule and the establishment of a throne as a defining sign of the claim to power and authority. It can be with a high backrest and feature heraldic animals or other decorations as adornment and as a sign of power and strength. A throne can be placed underneath
6840-564: The "Altar of the Chair" lies the Cathedra Petri , a throne believed to have been used by St Peter himself and other earlier popes; this relic is enclosed in a gilt bronze casting and forms part of a huge monument designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini . Unlike at his cathedral (Archbasilica of St. John Lateran), there is no permanent cathedra for the pope in St Peter's Basilica, so a removable throne
6960-410: The "Altar of the Chair" lies the Cathedra Petri , a throne believed to have been used by St Peter himself and other earlier popes; this relic is enclosed in a gilt bronze casting and forms part of a huge monument designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini . Unlike at his cathedral (Archbasilica of St. John Lateran), there is no permanent cathedra for the pope in St Peter's Basilica, so a removable throne
7080-542: The Byzantine court, such as a pair of lions seated at the foot of the throne. The term "throne" is often used in reference to patriarchs to designate their ecclesiastical authority; for instance, "the Ecumenical Throne" refers to the authority of the ecumenical patriarch of Constantinople . Western bishops may also use a faldstool to fulfill the liturgical purpose of the cathedra when not in their own cathedral. In
7200-430: The Byzantine court, such as a pair of lions seated at the foot of the throne. The term "throne" is often used in reference to patriarchs to designate their ecclesiastical authority; for instance, "the Ecumenical Throne" refers to the authority of the ecumenical patriarch of Constantinople . Western bishops may also use a faldstool to fulfill the liturgical purpose of the cathedra when not in their own cathedral. In
7320-564: The Pali term sammakhaṇḍa . The Dragon Throne is the term used to identify the throne of the emperor of China . As the dragon was the emblem of divine imperial power, the throne of the emperor, who was considered a living god , was known as the Dragon Throne. The term can refer to very specific seating, as in the special seating in various structures in the Forbidden City of Beijing or in
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#17328370320547440-404: The Pali term sammakhaṇḍa . The Dragon Throne is the term used to identify the throne of the emperor of China . As the dragon was the emblem of divine imperial power, the throne of the emperor, who was considered a living god , was known as the Dragon Throne. The term can refer to very specific seating, as in the special seating in various structures in the Forbidden City of Beijing or in
7560-674: The angel Gabriel also refers to this throne in the Gospel of Luke ( 1:32–33 ): "He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end." Jesus promised his apostles that they would sit upon "twelve thrones", judging the twelve tribes of Israel ( Matthew 19:28 ). John 's Revelation states: "And I saw
7680-480: The angel Gabriel also refers to this throne in the Gospel of Luke ( 1:32–33 ): "He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end." Jesus promised his apostles that they would sit upon "twelve thrones", judging the twelve tribes of Israel ( Matthew 19:28 ). John 's Revelation states: "And I saw
7800-591: The apse and the Altar of the Confession. This practice has fallen out of use with the 1960s and 1970s reform of Papal liturgy and, whenever the pope celebrates Mass in St. Peter's Basilica, a simpler portable throne is now placed on platform in front of the Altar of the Confession. Whenever Pope Benedict XVI celebrated the Liturgy of the Hours at St Peter's, a more elaborate removable throne
7920-401: The apse and the Altar of the Confession. This practice has fallen out of use with the 1960s and 1970s reform of Papal liturgy and, whenever the pope celebrates Mass in St. Peter's Basilica, a simpler portable throne is now placed on platform in front of the Altar of the Confession. Whenever Pope Benedict XVI celebrated the Liturgy of the Hours at St Peter's, a more elaborate removable throne
8040-529: The artisans who used to make the Baldachin. The surname is found mainly in the islands of Malta and Sicily, particularly in Agrigento and Naro. throne A throne is the seat of state of a potentate or dignitary , especially the seat occupied by a sovereign (or viceroy ) on state occasions; or the seat occupied by a pope or bishop on ceremonial occasions. "Throne" in an abstract sense can also refer to
8160-504: The base of every column. All of these combine to create a feeling of upward movement. A baldachin may also be used in formal processions, including royal entries , coronation or funeral processions, to signify the elite status of the individual it covers. The origins of such an emblematic use in Europe lay in the courts of the Neo-Assyrian state, adopted in Athens perhaps as early as
8280-452: The bedchamber", a signal honour. The state bed, a lit à la duchesse —its canopy supported without visible posts—was delivered for the use of Queen Marie Leszczyńska at Versailles , as the centrepiece of a new decor realised for the Queen in 1730–35. Its tester is quickly recognisable as a baldachin, serving its time-honoured function; the bedding might easily be replaced by
8400-404: The biblical account of King David 's life, are of particular relevance, as David was seen as the ideal for Christian monarchs. Although medieval examples tended to be retained in the early modern period , having acquired the aura of tradition, when new thrones were made they either continued medieval styles or were just very grand and elaborate versions of contemporary chairs or armchairs. In
8520-402: The biblical account of King David 's life, are of particular relevance, as David was seen as the ideal for Christian monarchs. Although medieval examples tended to be retained in the early modern period , having acquired the aura of tradition, when new thrones were made they either continued medieval styles or were just very grand and elaborate versions of contemporary chairs or armchairs. In
8640-427: The bishop's authority to teach the faith (hence the expression " ex cathedra ") and to govern his flock. Ex cathedra refers to the explicative authority, notably the extremely rarely used procedure required for a papal declaration to be ' infallible ' under Roman Catholic canon law . In several languages the word deriving from cathedra is commonly used for an academic teaching mandate, the professorial chair. From
8760-427: The bishop's authority to teach the faith (hence the expression " ex cathedra ") and to govern his flock. Ex cathedra refers to the explicative authority, notably the extremely rarely used procedure required for a papal declaration to be ' infallible ' under Roman Catholic canon law . In several languages the word deriving from cathedra is commonly used for an academic teaching mandate, the professorial chair. From
8880-518: The canopy over the newly elected pope. This was the new pope's first throne. This tradition was dramatically portrayed in the 1968 film The Shoes of the Fisherman . In European feudal countries, monarchs often were seated on thrones, based in all likelihood on the Roman magisterial chair . These thrones were originally quite simple, especially when compared to their Asian counterparts. In practice, any chair
9000-418: The canopy over the newly elected pope. This was the new pope's first throne. This tradition was dramatically portrayed in the 1968 film The Shoes of the Fisherman . In European feudal countries, monarchs often were seated on thrones, based in all likelihood on the Roman magisterial chair . These thrones were originally quite simple, especially when compared to their Asian counterparts. In practice, any chair
9120-508: The character of its ornamentation. The liturgical color of the canopy should correspond with that of the other vestments. When ruling monarchs attend services, they are also allowed to be seated on a throne that is covered by a canopy, but their seats must be outside the sanctuary. In the Greek Orthodox Church , the bishop's throne will often combine features of the monastic choir stall ( kathisma ) with appurtenances inherited from
9240-444: The character of its ornamentation. The liturgical color of the canopy should correspond with that of the other vestments. When ruling monarchs attend services, they are also allowed to be seated on a throne that is covered by a canopy, but their seats must be outside the sanctuary. In the Greek Orthodox Church , the bishop's throne will often combine features of the monastic choir stall ( kathisma ) with appurtenances inherited from
9360-501: The cloth. In the Middle Ages, a hieratic canopy of state (or "estate"), cloth of honour, or cloth of state was hung above the seat of a personage of sufficient standing, as a symbol of authority. The seat under such a canopy of state would normally be raised on a dais . The cloth above a seat generally continued vertically down to the ground behind the seat. Emperors and kings, reigning dukes and bishops were accorded this honour. In
9480-473: The corners of the cloth. " Baldachin " was originally a luxurious type of cloth from Baghdad , from which name the word is ultimately derived, appearing in English as " baudekin " and other spellings. Matthew Paris records that Henry III of England wore a robe " de preciosissimo baldekino " at a ceremony at Westminster Abbey in 1247. The word for the cloth became the word for the ceremonial canopies made from
9600-504: The end of his pontificate, Pope John Paul II had a specially constructed throne on wheels that could be used inside. Prior to 1978, at the papal conclave , each cardinal was seated on a throne in the Sistine Chapel during the balloting. Each throne had a canopy over it. After a successful election, once the new pope accepted election and decided by what name he would be known, the cardinals would all lower their canopies, leaving only
9720-448: The end of his pontificate, Pope John Paul II had a specially constructed throne on wheels that could be used inside. Prior to 1978, at the papal conclave , each cardinal was seated on a throne in the Sistine Chapel during the balloting. Each throne had a canopy over it. After a successful election, once the new pope accepted election and decided by what name he would be known, the cardinals would all lower their canopies, leaving only
9840-470: The gold fleur-de-lys . Margaret Beaufort , mother of Henry VII in her portrait by an anonymous artist, c. 1500 prays under a canopy of estate; one can see the dosser against the gilded leather wall-covering and the tester above her head (the Tudor rose at its centre) supported on cords from the ceiling. The coats-of-arms embroidered or woven into the tapestry are of England (parted as usual with France) and
9960-419: The idea of ancient gods (such as the Twelve Olympians ) seated on thrones. In the major Abrahamic religions of Judaism , Christianity , and Islam , the Throne of Yahweh is attested to in religious scriptures and teachings, although the origin, nature, and idea of the Throne of Yahweh in these religions differs according to the given religious ideology practiced. In the west, a throne is most identified as
10080-477: The land in question. Depending on the size of the throne in question it may be large and ornately designed as an emplaced instrument of a nation's power, or it may be a symbolic chair with little or no precious materials incorporated into the design. When used in a religious sense, throne can refer to one of two distinct uses. The first use derives from the practice in churches of having a bishop or higher-ranking religious official ( archbishop , pope , etc.) sit on
10200-534: The largest political powers on the divided Italian peninsula. To this day, the Holy See maintains officially recognised diplomatic status, and papal nuncios and legates are deputed on diplomatic missions throughout the world. The pope's throne ( Cathedra Romana ) is located in the apse of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran , his cathedral as Bishop of Rome . In the apse of Saint Peter's Basilica , above
10320-430: The largest political powers on the divided Italian peninsula. To this day, the Holy See maintains officially recognised diplomatic status, and papal nuncios and legates are deputed on diplomatic missions throughout the world. The pope's throne ( Cathedra Romana ) is located in the apse of the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran , his cathedral as Bishop of Rome . In the apse of Saint Peter's Basilica , above
10440-542: The last English state beds intended for a main floor State Bedroom in a non-royal residence. In Britain, monarchs slept in a state bed in the Palace of Westminster the night before their coronation. This tradition was started by William the Conqueror in 1066 and continued until 1821, when George IV was the last monarch to sleep in the bed. The original state bed was damaged in a fire and replaced in 1859. The new bed remained in
10560-413: The late seventh century BC, but relegated to the use of women by the late fifth century (compare parasol ). Such canopies might be made of anything from muslin to heavy brocade, or even constructed of less flexible materials, and are supported by poles, whether affixed to a carriage, or carried by people walking on each side. An Egyptian pharaoh, for example, was escorted both in life and in death by such
10680-530: The meeting-place the name of The Field of Cloth of Gold . The canopy of estate may still be seen in most formal throne rooms . When Mary, Queen of Scots , was a prisoner in England at Tutbury Castle in 1585 she protested to her keepers Amias Paulet and John Somers about the removal of her cloth of estate from a dining room, which seemed to be a slight against her royal status. The state bed, intended for receiving important visitors and producing heirs before
10800-466: The monarch occupied in a formal setting served as a "throne", though there were often special chairs used only for this purpose, kept in places the monarch often went to. Thrones began to be made in pairs, for the king and queen, which remained common in later periods. Sometimes they are identical, or the queen's throne may be slightly less grand. The 10th-century throne of the Byzantine emperor , placed in
10920-415: The monarch occupied in a formal setting served as a "throne", though there were often special chairs used only for this purpose, kept in places the monarch often went to. Thrones began to be made in pairs, for the king and queen, which remained common in later periods. Sometimes they are identical, or the queen's throne may be slightly less grand. The 10th-century throne of the Byzantine emperor , placed in
11040-418: The monarch upon the throne to his or her predecessors, who sat upon the throne previously. Accordingly, many thrones are typically held to have been constructed or fabricated out of rare or hard to find materials that may be valuable or important to the land in question. Depending on the size of the throne in question it may be large and ornately designed as an emplaced instrument of a nation's power, or it may be
11160-422: The most direct heir of pharaonic splendor, and included a pair of flabella (fans made from ostrich feathers) to either side. Pope John Paul I at first abandoned the use of these implements, but later in his brief reign began to use the sedia so that he could be seen more easily by the crowds. The use of the sedia was abandoned by Pope John Paul II in favor of the so-called " popemobile " when outside. Near
11280-422: The most direct heir of pharaonic splendor, and included a pair of flabella (fans made from ostrich feathers) to either side. Pope John Paul I at first abandoned the use of these implements, but later in his brief reign began to use the sedia so that he could be seen more easily by the crowds. The use of the sedia was abandoned by Pope John Paul II in favor of the so-called " popemobile " when outside. Near
11400-794: The most famous thrones still in usage are St Edward's Chair , on which the British monarch is crowned, and the thrones used by monarchs during the state opening of parliaments in the United Kingdom , the Netherlands , Canada , Australia , and Japan (see above) among others. Some republics use distinctive throne-like chairs in some state ceremonial. The president of Ireland sits on a former viceregal throne during his or her inauguration ceremony, while lords mayor and lords provost of many British and Irish cities often preside over local councils from throne-like chairs. Owing to its symbolic nature,
11520-636: The most famous thrones still in usage are St Edward's Chair , on which the British monarch is crowned, and the thrones used by monarchs during the state opening of parliaments in the United Kingdom , the Netherlands , Canada , Australia , and Japan (see above) among others. Some republics use distinctive throne-like chairs in some state ceremonial. The president of Ireland sits on a former viceregal throne during his or her inauguration ceremony, while lords mayor and lords provost of many British and Irish cities often preside over local councils from throne-like chairs. Owing to its symbolic nature,
11640-488: The palaces of the Old Summer Palace . In an abstract sense, the "Dragon Throne" also refers rhetorically to the head of state and to the monarchy itself. The Daoguang Emperor is said to have referred to his throne as "the divine utensil ." The throne of the emperors of Vietnam are often referred to as ngai vàng ("golden throne") or ngôi báu (大寳/寶座) literally "great precious" (seat/position). The throne
11760-428: The palaces of the Old Summer Palace . In an abstract sense, the "Dragon Throne" also refers rhetorically to the head of state and to the monarchy itself. The Daoguang Emperor is said to have referred to his throne as "the divine utensil ." The throne of the emperors of Vietnam are often referred to as ngai vàng ("golden throne") or ngôi báu (大寳/寶座) literally "great precious" (seat/position). The throne
11880-509: The portcullis badge of the Beauforts. Sometimes, as in the presentation miniature Jean Wauquelin presenting his 'Chroniques de Hainaut' to Philip the Good by Rogier van der Weyden , the cloth continues over the seat, and then to the floor. In the summer of 1520, a meeting was staged between Francis I of France and Henry VIII of England , where the ostentatious display of wealth and power earned
12000-631: The presence of this cathedra (throne), which can be as elaborate and precious as fits a secular prince (even if the prelate is not a prince of the church in the secular sense), a bishop's primary church is called a cathedral . In the Roman Catholic Church, a basilica —from the Greek basilikos 'royal'—now refers to the presence there of a papal canopy ( ombrellino ), part of his regalia , and applies mainly to many cathedrals and Catholic churches of similar importance or splendor. In Roman Antiquity
12120-519: The presence of this cathedra (throne), which can be as elaborate and precious as fits a secular prince (even if the prelate is not a prince of the church in the secular sense), a bishop's primary church is called a cathedral . In the Roman Catholic Church, a basilica —from the Greek basilikos 'royal'—now refers to the presence there of a papal canopy ( ombrellino ), part of his regalia , and applies mainly to many cathedrals and Catholic churches of similar importance or splendor. In Roman Antiquity
12240-524: The royal palaces and temples so that the gods could be seated when they wished to be. The most famous of these thrones was the throne of Apollo in Amyclae . The Romans also had two types of thrones—one for the emperor and one for the goddess Roma whose statues were seated upon thrones, which became centers of worship. In Persia , the traditional name of the throne is the Takht-e Padeshah . From
12360-417: The royal palaces and temples so that the gods could be seated when they wished to be. The most famous of these thrones was the throne of Apollo in Amyclae . The Romans also had two types of thrones—one for the emperor and one for the goddess Roma whose statues were seated upon thrones, which became centers of worship. In Persia , the traditional name of the throne is the Takht-e Padeshah . From
12480-543: The ruler an empty throne can symbolise the everlasting presence of the monarchical authority. When used in a political or governmental sense, a throne typically exists in a civilization, nation, tribe, or other politically designated group that is organized or governed under a monarchical system. Throughout much of human history societies have been governed under monarchical systems, in the beginning as autocratic systems and later evolved in most cases as constitutional monarchies within liberal democratic systems, resulting in
12600-434: The seat upon which a person holding the title King , Queen , Emperor , or Empress sits in a nation using a monarchy political system, although there are a few exceptions, notably with regards to religious officials such as the pope and bishops of various sects of the Christian faith. Changing geo-political tides have resulted in the collapse of several dictatorial and autocratic governments, which in turn have left
12720-421: The style and ornamentation used on them, according to the regulations and traditions of the particular denomination. As a mark of distinction, Roman Catholic bishops and higher prelates have a right to a canopy above their thrones at certain ecclesiastical functions. It is sometimes granted by special privilege to prelates inferior to bishops, but always with limitations as to the days on which it may be used and
12840-421: The style and ornamentation used on them, according to the regulations and traditions of the particular denomination. As a mark of distinction, Roman Catholic bishops and higher prelates have a right to a canopy above their thrones at certain ecclesiastical functions. It is sometimes granted by special privilege to prelates inferior to bishops, but always with limitations as to the days on which it may be used and
12960-401: The throne of a Hindu princely state 's ruler, while among Muslim princes or Nawabs, save exceptions such as the Travancore State royal family, the term musnad ( [ˈməsnəd] ), also spelt as musnud , was more common, even though both seats were similar. The Throne of Jahangir was built by Mughal emperor Jahangir in 1602 and is located at the Diwan-i-Khas (hall of private audience) at
13080-430: The throne" takes its meaning from the steps leading up to the dais or platform, on which the throne is placed, being formerly comprised in the word's significance. Coats of arms or insignia can feature on throne or canopy and represent the dynasty . Even in the physical absence of the ruler an empty throne can symbolise the everlasting presence of the monarchical authority. When used in a political or governmental sense,
13200-460: The thrones are concerned with carrying out divine justice. In Medieval times the "Throne of Solomon" was associated with the Virgin Mary , who was depicted as the throne upon which Jesus sat . The ivory in the biblical description of the Throne of Solomon was interpreted as representing purity, the gold representing divinity, and the six steps of the throne stood for the six virtues . Psalm 45:9
13320-407: The thrones are concerned with carrying out divine justice. In Medieval times the "Throne of Solomon" was associated with the Virgin Mary , who was depicted as the throne upon which Jesus sat . The ivory in the biblical description of the Throne of Solomon was interpreted as representing purity, the gold representing divinity, and the six steps of the throne stood for the six virtues . Psalm 45:9
13440-553: The tomb of Saint Peter , in the new St. Peter's Basilica . The canopy imitated cloth in bronze, as did many subsequent imitations. This famous and spectacular feature is generally called the "Baldacchino", though strictly it is a ciborium . Bernini's design for the Baldacchino incorporated giant solomonic columns inspired by columns that ringed the altar of the Old St. Peter's. These columns were originally donated by Constantine , and
13560-467: The traditional name for a throne is palin , from the Pali term pallaṅka , which means "couch" or "sofa." The Burmese palin in pre-colonial times was used to seat the sovereign and his main consort, and is today used to seat religious leaders such as sayadaws , and images of the Buddha. Royal thrones are called yazapalin (ရာဇပလ္လင်), while thrones seating images or statues of the Buddha are called gaw pallin (ဂေါ့ပလ္လင်) or samakhan (စမ္မခဏ်), from
13680-471: Was also covered by a mobile canopy during his coronation, held up on poles by several peers of France. The Virgin Mary in particular is very often shown sitting under a cloth of honour in medieval and Renaissance paintings where she is shown enthroned with saints. The cloth was often simply a luxurious textile, often imported and with rich patterns, as in brocades , but might have heraldic elements. French kings are often shown with blue cloths patterned with
13800-510: Was also interpreted as referring to the Virgin Mary, with the entire Psalm describing a royal throne room. From ancient times, bishops of the Roman Catholic , Eastern Orthodox , Anglican and other churches where episcopal offices exist, have been formally seated on a throne, called a cathedra ( Greek : κάθεδρα, seat ). Traditionally located in the sanctuary , the cathedra symbolizes
13920-400: Was also interpreted as referring to the Virgin Mary, with the entire Psalm describing a royal throne room. From ancient times, bishops of the Roman Catholic , Eastern Orthodox , Anglican and other churches where episcopal offices exist, have been formally seated on a throne, called a cathedra ( Greek : κάθεδρα, seat ). Traditionally located in the sanctuary , the cathedra symbolizes
14040-404: Was made by the goldsmith Hafez Muhammad Multani about 1820 to 1830. Made of wood and resin core, covered with sheets of repoussé, chased and engraved gold. The Golden Throne or Chinnada Simhasana or Ratna Simahasana in Kannada is the royal seat of the rulers of the Kingdom of Mysore . The Golden Throne is kept at Mysore Palace. In Burma, the traditional name for a throne is palin , from
14160-403: Was placed on a dais to the side of the Altar of the Chair. When the pope celebrates Mass on the basilica steps facing St. Peter's Square , portable thrones are also used. In the past, the pope was also carried on occasions in a portable throne, called the sedia gestatoria . Originally, the sedia was used as part of the elaborate procession surrounding papal ceremonies that was believed to be
14280-403: Was placed on a dais to the side of the Altar of the Chair. When the pope celebrates Mass on the basilica steps facing St. Peter's Square , portable thrones are also used. In the past, the pope was also carried on occasions in a portable throne, called the sedia gestatoria . Originally, the sedia was used as part of the elaborate procession surrounding papal ceremonies that was believed to be
14400-459: Was the seat of the Mughal emperors of India. It was commissioned in the early 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan and was located in the Red Fort of Delhi. The original throne was subsequently captured and taken as a war trophy in 1739 by the Persian king Nadir Shah and has been lost ever since. A replacement throne based on the original was commissioned afterwards and existed until the Indian Rebellion of 1857 . Maharaja Ranjit Singh's throne
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