Portrait miniature of Edward, unknown artist, 1543-1546, Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
On the 20th February 1547, Shrove Tuesday, a nine-year-old boy processed through Westminster Abbey, sat on the throne, and was crowned with St. Edward’s crown. That boy, a prince of the realm, was now King Edward VI.
In the event of Edward’s father’s, Henry VIII, death on 28th January 1547, a power vaccum ensued. With Edward’s young age, the situation raised immediate concerns about the stability of the kingdom and the governance that would follow. The Regency Council was established to govern on behalf of the young king. This council was composed of nobles and advisors, many of whom had their own ambitions and agendas. Among them were powerful figures such as Edward Seymour, the Duke of Somerset, who emerged as the most influential member. Seymour was determined to act as Protector of the Realm, effectively ruling on Edward's behalf until he came of age.
The political manoeuvring during this period was intense. Different factions within the court sought to gain control and influence over the young king. The Protestant Reformation was also a significant factor, as England was still adjusting to the religious changes initiated by Henry VIII. The country was divided between those who supported the Protestant reforms and those who remained loyal to Catholic traditions. This division added another layer of complexity to the politics surrounding Edward's ascension.
Seymour's rise to power was not without opposition. His brother, Thomas Seymour, also sought to gain favour and influence, leading to a rivalry that would ultimately have dire consequences. Thomas was known for his ambition and desire for power, and his attempts to undermine Edward Seymour created further instability within the court. The tensions between the two Seymour brothers reflected the broader struggles for power among the nobility during this tumultuous period.
As the Regency Council prepared for Edward's coronation, the political factions began to align themselves. The council worked diligently to ensure that the young king's coronation would solidify their power and influence. On 20th February 1547, Edward was officially proclaimed king, and plans for his coronation were put into motion. The coronation was not only a ceremonial event but also a crucial moment for the Regency Council to assert its authority.
Edward VI's coronation marked the beginning of a new chapter in English history. His reign would be characterized by further religious reforms and the continuation of the Protestant agenda initiated by his father. However, the challenges faced by the young king and his regents were significant. The political landscape remained volatile, with ongoing power struggles and the ever-present threat of rebellion from those who opposed the changes being implemented.
Interestingly, Edward’s mother Jane Seymour played a special role within the coronation. Tragically dying when Edward was days old, Edward wanted to keep his mother’s memory close. As well as using St. Edward’s crown, a new imperial crown was made, using scrap gold from the Jewel House. A set on nine letters was included on this crown, including “I” and “J”, which was perhaps originally made for Jane. The crown was also set with pearls from Henry VIII’s, caps, so Edward was able to pay tribute to both his parents.
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