Silver sceptres of the University of Helsinki

From medieval times onwards, the regalia of Europe’s historic universities have typically comprised the charter, sceptres, matricula, and the seal, alongside additional emblems such as the rector’s cape and keys. 

Sceptres have symbolised power since ancient times, appearing, for instance, as part of sculptures of Egyptian pharaohs. In universities, they became international symbols of institutional autonomy and of the internal jurisdiction exercised over community members until the late 19th century. The University’s sceptres have featured at University Senate meetings and festive occasions. Beyond conferment ceremonies, they continue to be borne by beadles in all of the University’s significant academic processions. The beadles were once the University’s keepers of the peace; today, their ceremonial duties are carried out by the University’s porters. The sceptres are normally housed in a display case at Helsinki University Museum and will return there once the museum reopens in late 2023 after its renovation.  

Crafted in 1640 by the Stockholm master goldsmith Mikael Beck, the University of Helsinki’s silver sceptres reflect the stylistic shift from the Renaissance to the Baroque. In keeping with Nordic tradition, their design is fairly restrained. The sceptres measure 81 cm in length and feature a tubular shaft. At one end of each sceptre is a slightly elongated sphere, surrounded at its midpoint by a rim adorned with winged angel heads and rosettes. These spheres represent omnipresent power and can be viewed as globes.  

The silver sceptres have been through many dramatic episodes. Following the outbreak of the Great Wrath, a period dominated by the Russian invasion and subsequent military occupation of Finland, they were taken in 1713, along with the Turku Academy’s other key assets, to Stockholm, where they remained for seven years. In 1827 they escaped the Great Fire of Turku unharmed. The old side of the University of Helsinki’s Main Building was set alight when it was hit directly during a bombing raid on the city in February 1944. The sceptres were saved by being thrown into the snow in Senate Square.      

Generations of University community members have come and gone over the centuries, and the University’s hometown has changed from Turku to Helsinki. Yet the silver sceptres remain a tangible and visible link between the academic past, present and future.