The Thistle Chapel, St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh

Category

Library Item

Item no

3137

Title

The Thistle Chapel, St Giles Cathedral, Edinburgh, looking east

Description

The Thistle Chapel of St Giles Cathedral. An elaborately carved wooden throne stands under a canopy of wood carvings which include coats of arms, heraldic symbols, statues and thistles. Above the carvings are stained glass windows.

Artist / maker

Unknown

Date

1921

Size

13.1 x 8 cm

Type

Photograph; Postcard

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

The Thistle Chapel was designed by Sir Robert Stodart Lorimer, and added to the south-east corner of St Giles Kirk in 1909-11. It is a private chapel for the Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, hosting its ceremonies and services. The Order of the Thistle is the highest honour in Scotland. Opinions vary as to its origins, but the order certainly dates from at least the 15th century, and possibly as far back as the 9th. The honour fell out of use around the time of the Reformation and was revived first by James II and VII in 1687, and then again by Queen Anne in 1703. The order is bestowed on Scottish men and women who have held public office or made a significant contribution to the nation.

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Related subjects

Furnishings > Furniture > Chairs

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh

Religion > Religious facilities > Chapels

Religion > Religious facilities > Protestant churches