Ampulla 5/4 Vase

The anointing is the most sacred part of the coronation ceremony, and takes place before the investiture and crowning. Traditionally, the Archbishop pours holy oil from an ampulla, into a spoon, and anoints the sovereign on the hands, chest and head. The gesture dates back to the Old Testament Book of Kings and the anointing of Solomon as King.

Reflecting a modern monarchy, the ancient recipe for the coronation anointing oil has been updated to include olive oil scented with a mix of essential oils, benzoin, cinnamon, jasmine, neroil, rose, sesame, with orange blossom also added. It was these coronation emblems that inspired Nicola to create a design fit for our new King. Oranges and burnished brown cinnamon sticks sit amongst white roses with soft cream shading at their centres, and small star-shaped jasmine flowers - all set against the dramatic backdrop of a classic Moorcroft dark blue ground.

The ampulla dates back to Roman time, and was a small round vessel with two handles, used for sacred purposes. Nicola wanted to emulate this ancient shape with her contemporary design and so Moorcroft’s classic twin-handled vase has been reimagined for King Charles III’s coronation on a new and smaller shape to mark this very special historic occasion.

Ex Tax: £412.50

• Designer: Nicola Slaney
• Dimensions: H 10.00 x W 11.00 x D 11.00 cm
• Availability: Please allow up to 6 weeks for delivery