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Queen’s Room Settee #2001-1883Former Queen’s Room, North Wing, Main Floor

Fully upholstered wing back settee with roll over arms and fitted seat cushions; upholstered in red leather, on tapering out swept maple legs with brass bases; part of a three piece lounge suite comprising two armchairs and a three-seater settee.

History

The settee is still located in the Queen’s Room where it was used by Queen Elizabeth II during her five day trip to Canberra in 1954. On the third of February, 1954, the newly crowned Queen became the first reigning monarch to visit Australia. Accompanied by her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, she travelled extensively around the country and visited every capital city (except Darwin) and 70 country towns during her eight-week tour. It is estimated that approximately 75% of the population saw the Queen at least once during her trip. Her visit also marked an important event for Provisional Parliament House when Queen Elizabeth II became the first reigning monarch to open our parliament.

During her five day trip to Canberra Queen Elizabeth II attended various functions and events at Provisional Parliament House including the State banquet and State ball held in her honour and the opening of the third session of the 20th National Parliament. While she was visiting Provisional Parliament House a room in the President of the Senate’s suite was set up as a room for the Queen so that she could have some privacy. This settee is part of a three-piece wingback lounge suite that was purchased specifically for use in the Queen’s room during the Royal visit. Although it was initially covered in green floral fabric it was later reupholstered in red leather to match with the colour of the Senate.

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Statement of values

The settee is a significant item of furniture through its association with Queen Elizabeth II and the first visit to Australia by a reigning monarch in 1954. Provisional Parliament House was a site that provided a physical focus for events that reflect Australian democratic values, and political and social rights. The Queen’s visit reinforced the ties between Australia and England and emphasised the significance of Australia’s role initially as a member of the British Empire and later as a member of the Commonwealth of Nations.

The settee is significant as a component of the Heritage Collection, which comprises those pieces of furniture which were used in the Provisional Parliament House between 1924 and 1988. The collection has associations with the process of government, the ceremonial, administrative, promotional and recreational functions conducted within the House, and with the individuals who governed Australia between 1927 and 1988. The Old Parliament House building has a richness of internal fabric and collections that convey the way in which parliamentary functions were conducted, the everyday use of the building, and the hierarchical nature of parliamentary staffing practices.

  • Queen’s Room Settee - Image from the Old Parliament House CollectionQueen’s Room Settee - Image from the Old Parliament House Collection
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Details

Width 1860mm
Height 1015mm
Depth 800mm
Medium Queensland maple; leather; timber; textile
Creator’s name Unknown
Date created Circa 1930