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An Object with Royal Connection

Silver Gilt Gorget, c.1720

In celebration of the coronation of King Charles III, we highlight an object with a royal connection - a silver gilt gorget with the insignia of George 1, c.1720.

The term 'gorget' indicates the roots of this ornamental throat plate which originally acted as a neck guard on medieval armour. In the time of King George I, such plates were worn by officers suspended on black ribbon around their necks. They were a key part of the uniform of the period which reference back to knights of a romanticised past. The king's insignia on the gorget showed the officer's clear allegiance to the king.

This object can be seen on display in the museum.