Broadway Tent & Event recently acquired a set of royal throne chairs, which are perfect for events with royalty, for the bride and groom at weddings, or even for Santa! The interest in these chairs led us to wonder about the history of thrones. How did thrones become a symbol of royalty, and how can that be translated into modern symbolism and uses?
To learn more about thrones, we turned to DailyHistory.org and its comprehensive historical overview. We’ll summarize it below!
Earliest Uses of Thrones in Monarchy
Some of the first documented instances of thrones date back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia soon after each gained royal power. Thrones were ornately decorated and placed into a special throne room, where monarchs met with subjects and foreign dignitaries. Because Egyptian kings were considered gods, his throne was often raised to symbolize the divine nature of his authority.
In ancient China, throne laws went beyond that specific piece of furniture. Chairs in general were classified, and only select classes could sit on certain chairs. In both China and India, each specific throne was given a name.
The oldest surviving throne room in Egypt is at the palace of Knossos in Crete. It is surrounded by benches, possibly to seat the king’s court or council. The walls are decorated with griffins, which were symbols of protection and royal power.
Thrones in Religion
When Christianity developed, the similarities between royal and religious power led to similar throne displays in churches and cathedrals. Both high priests and kings had the authority to sit on a throne. Thrones in Europe tended to be simpler than those from earlier periods or different regions, but religious thrones slowly grew more elaborate.
Modern Thrones
Even in countries in which monarchy no longer rules, the throne still holds significance. The coronation throne is still used to crown monarch in the United Kingdom, despite the fact that it has an aged appearance. Even in the United States, the speaker of the House of Representatives sits in a de facto throne, elevated above the legislative body.
Our royal throne chair is a great way to infuse elegance and stature into your event.
Whatever your wedding, special event or party needs, Broadway Tent & Event has you covered.