Royal coronation: Charles will wear robes weighing 6kg before a 2kg crown is placed on his head
At the moment of his formal ascension to the throne, King Charles will be adorned in heavy layers of ornate robes. During the coronation service, known as the investiture, King Charles III will wear the Supertunica, a gold-sleeved coat weighing approximately 2kg, and the Imperial Mantle, a 3 to 4kg floor-length cloak adorned with stylised arabesques and floral patterns.
The Supertunica, also referred to as the Close Pall of Cloth of Gold, is made of silk thread wrapped in thin pieces of gold and was first created for Charles’ great-grandfather, King George V, in 1911. Similarly, the Imperial Mantle, or Robe Royal, was crafted for King George IV in 1921. After Charles has been adorned in the heavy attire, which is typically kept at the Tower of London, the Archbishop of Canterbury will place the 2.23kg St Edward’s Crown on his head.
Assisting Charles in wearing the robes will be his son and heir to the throne, William, Prince of Wales. Caroline de Guitat, deputy surveyor of the King’s works of art for the Royal Collection Trust, noted the historical and sacred significance of the robes, which have been worn in numerous coronations throughout history. In contrast, Catherine, Princess of Wales, will reportedly forego the traditional royal look for the upcoming event on May 6, instead choosing to wear a flower garland instead of a tiara.
In addition to the regal attire, preparations are underway to display the Crown Jewels in public for the first time since Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation almost 60 years ago. Royal staff are also polishing up ceremonial maces, the St Edward’s staff, and the 17th century Sword of State for use during the investiture.