Carolus Rex II

A 17th century silver heart-shaped locket celebrating the coronation of Charles II in 1661.  The obverse of the locket depicts the monarch crowned and with a rich lace cravat surrounded by motto Carolus 2 Rex. To reverse botanical motifs relating to his Kingdom – red and white roses symbolic of the Houses of York and Lancaster, the thistle of Scotland and tulips. When civil war broke out in 1642, the heir to the throne Prince Charles was only twelve. He courageously engaged in the fighting for the next four years and, on one occasion when advised to retreat, cried ‘I fear them not’. He was eventually sent abroad for his safety in 1646. His attempt to invade England in 1651 ended in disaster at the Battle of Worcester when he was sheltered by Royalists until he finally escaped back to France. Charles was restored to the throne in May 1660, amidst great rejoicing. The heart-shape suggests the wearer’s loyalty to the monarch. The locket measures one inch by 3/4 of an inch and has survived in fine, original condition.

£1950