The Round Table at the Great Hall Winchester.
Constructed from English oak it dates in the later years of the 13th century, the round table top hangs in the Great Hall of Winchester Castle, built under Henry III. Considered one of the finest surviving aisled halls of the 13th century, the Great Hall is all that remains of the medieval castle originally constructed for William the Conqueror in 1067.
The round table is believed to have been made in about 1290, for a “Round Table” tournament (festival) near Winchester held to celebrate the betrothal of one of Edward I’s daughters.
The table top measures 5.5 meters in diameter and weighs 1,200 kg. Though originally a table standing on legs, it has been displayed hanging on the west wall since 1873, when it was moved from the east wall where it had hung prior to that time (since at least 1540, and possibly since 1348).
The artwork you see on the table today dates to the reign of Henry VIII who had the table painted with the Tudor Rose at its centre. The outer design is thought to portray Henry as King Arthur on his throne, surrounded by 24 places, each bearing the name of one of the legendary Knights of the Round Table.
The Round Table at the Great Hall Winchester.
Constructed from English oak it dates in the later years of the 13th century, the round table top hangs in the Great Hall of Winchester Castle, built under Henry III. Considered one of the finest surviving aisled halls of the 13th century, the Great Hall is all that remains of the medieval castle originally constructed for William the Conqueror in 1067.
The round table is believed to have been made in about 1290, for a “Round Table” tournament (festival) near Winchester held to celebrate the betrothal of one of Edward I’s daughters.
The table top measures 5.5 meters in diameter and weighs 1,200 kg. Though originally a table standing on legs, it has been displayed hanging on the west wall since 1873, when it was moved from the east wall where it had hung prior to that time (since at least 1540, and possibly since 1348).
The artwork you see on the table today dates to the reign of Henry VIII who had the table painted with the Tudor Rose at its centre. The outer design is thought to portray Henry as King Arthur on his throne, surrounded by 24 places, each bearing the name of one of the legendary Knights of the Round Table.