Thread by @UKParliament

Meet Emma Traherne, Collections Manager for Historic Furniture and Decorative Arts. Emma studied Archaeology and Museum Studies at university and worked in a variety of museums, big and small, before joining Parliament in 2015. #AskACurator

© UK Parliament/Jessica Taylor

"On some carvings around the Palace and on the embroidery on the @UKHouseofLords Chamber Throne the lion of England is often depicted as having its tongue sticking out, why?" #AskACurator

An animal shown langue (with its tongue sticking out) denotes fierceness or a roar. This symbolism is probably showing the strength of England. 🦁 - Emma #AskACurator

Emma's photo © UK Parliament/Mark Duffy

One question I am often asked is "What's the history behind the Sovereign's Throne?" - Emma #AskACurator

The Sovereign’s Throne is one of the most important items of furniture in the Palace of Westminster. Let me tell you some more about it.

©Parliament

The elaborately carved woodwork is gilded, inset with rock crystals and upholstered in sumptuous red velvet and intricate embroidery. John Webb of Bond Street constructed the throne to A.W.N. Pugin’s design in 1847. - Emma #AskACurator

©Parliament

Pugin was likely influenced by St Edwards Chair, known as the Coronation Chair, which sits in @wabbey and was first used by Edward II in 1308. The Coronation Chair is the earliest surviving example of an English throne and Pugin must have been inspired by it. #AskACurator - Emma

💬"Have you ever sat on the throne Emma?"

Of course not! Only the monarch is allowed to sit on the throne. The throne is one of the few items which is only used once a year, at State Opening of Parliament. #AskACurator