Kohinoor diamond to be exhibited in London as a ‘image of conquest’: Details

On May 26 this 12 months, the historic diamond Koh-i-Noor (mountain of sunshine) might be put up for show as a ‘symbol of conquest’ on the Tower of London. The new exhibition, which has courted controversy since its announcement, reportedly will discover the historical past and origin of the diamond in utmost element.

India has repeatedly demanded the repatriation of the Koh-i-Noor diamond from the United Kingdom, which at the moment sits within the crown worn by Queen Elizabeth II throughout her 1937 coronation.

During the exhibition, the colonial previous of the 105.6-carat diamond could be defined and the way it was ‘given’ (taken away) to Britain in 1849. Koh-i-noor had modified a number of fingers over centuries and was possessed by Mughals, Afghan Emirs, Iranian Shahs, and Sikh rulers earlier than being taken away by the British.

👑 A brand new exhibition for the Jewel House! 👑 Following the Coronation this 12 months, a brand new show will open within the Jewel House on the @TowerOfLondon – dwelling of the Crown Jewels for practically 400 years! ➡️ https://t.co/WcDW9DJU4O pic.twitter.com/tD7oLNS4Ix

— Historic Royal Palaces (@HRP_palaces) March 15, 2023

While talking concerning the improvement to CNN, Tower of London’s media supervisor Sophie Lemangnen knowledgeable, “(The exhibit) references its long history as a symbol of conquest, which has passed through many hands.”

The controversial diamond, which is now a part of Crown Jewels, was initially unearthed in central Southern India. Reportedly, the East India Company seized Koh-i-Noor from Maharaja Duleep Singh in 1849 and handed it over to Queen Victoria.

The diamond was then recut in 1852 by the royal jeweller, Garrad of London, to enhance its brilliance. The story of Koh-i-Noor might be retold on the exhibition by way of a brief movie and a mix of projections and objects.

The occasion comes at a time when King Charles and his Queen consort Camilla are set to be topped in Westminster Abbey in May this 12 months. The keeper of the Jewel House, Andrew Jackson, stated that the exhibition will present guests with a richer understanding of the jewels’ assortment.

“We look forward to expanding the stories we are telling about the Crown Jewels,” he emphasised.