The painting depicts the moment at which King George VI, centre, is enthroned before the Archbishop of Canterbury, who holds aloft King Edward's crown; the ceremony is witnessed by Queen Elizabeth, seated on the left, and by Princesses Elizabeth and Margaret who stand beside Queen Mary. The event took place on 12 May 1937; the date originally intended for the coronation of Edward VIII and was also documented by the artist Frank O Salisbury (RCIN 407573).

Taylor, best known for his portraits and interiors, mostly painted in a traditional style more associated with artists of an earlier generation. He studied at the St John's Wood Art School and at the Royal Academy where he exhibited regularly throughout his career.

A portrait of Queen Mary, dated 1928 is in the collection of the Royal College of Music.

This painting was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1938 (177).