George IV crown by William Wyon

George IV crown

William Wyon · 1826

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“This magnificent gold crown, crafted by William Wyon, was made for King George IV in 1826. It's a dazzling example of royal regalia and the Neoclassical artistry of its time.”

ABOUT THIS WORK

This gleaming gold crown, created by William Wyon, served as the official crown for King George IV, who reigned from 1820 to 1830. Its impressive diameter of 150 millimeters speaks to its significant presence, designed to convey royal authority and splendor. The detailed engraving on its surface, a hallmark of Wyon's skill as chief engraver at the Royal Mint, would have caught the light dramatically during state occasions. Made in 1826, this object is not merely a piece of jewelry but a tangible symbol of British monarchy during a period of transition, reflecting the Neoclassical style prevalent in official art and design of the era. The crown itself is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship of its time, intended to be both a functional object of regalia and a work of art.

DETAILS
Artist
William Wyon
Date
1826
Medium
Gold
Location
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Dimensions
Diameter: 150 mm.
Collection
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Culture
British
Credit line
Gift of Assunta Sommella Peluso, Ada Peluso, and Romano I. Peluso, in memory of Ignazio Peluso, 2000
LOOK CLOSER

What to Notice

Four details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.

George IV crown
01

The intricate patterns engraved into the gold surface

02

How the crown's shape emphasizes its regal purpose

03

The precise detailing that suggests a hand-crafted object

04

The overall brilliance of the gold medium

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THE ARTIST

William Wyon

1795–1851 · British Empire

William Wyon, Chief Engraver at the Royal Mint, left an indelible mark on British coinage and even the world's first adhesive postage stamp, the Penny Black.

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