Sceptre

The Sceptre is part of the regalia, which is kept in the Treasury under Rosenborg Castle.

Scepteret anvendes ved Castrum doloris sammen med kroningssværd og rigsæble | Rosenborg Slot
Photo: Iben Kaufmann

The Sceptre is a symbol of grace and authority

The Sceptre of the Danish kings was created for the coronation of Frederik III, in 1648. It is a long golden tube topped by a crown on top of a naturalistic lily. The design reflects the keen interest in the cultivation of flowers during the 17th century and the growing contact with the larger world outside Europe. Without a doubt, the goldsmith will have also known that the lily is an ancient Christian symbol of grace.

The Sceptre and the other parts of the regalia were last used in connection with the anointing of Christian VIII in Frederiksborg Castle Chapel, in 1840. 

Today, the regalia is only used in connection with the monarch's death. The Sceptre and other parts of the regalia are laid in front the monarch's coffin in the Castrum Doloris ceremony. 

In addition to the Sceptre, the Danish regalia includes the Anointing Sword, the Orb and, of course, the Crown of Christian V, all of which are on display in the Treasury under Rosenborg Castle.