Vignette 132: The Mace

The mace, historically a weapon of bludgeoning, is today a tool of ceremony. The University’s Mace, commissioned in 1924 for the golden jubilee, is wielded by a chosen Mace Bearer at our graduation ceremonies.

It is 24 inches in length and made of silver gilt. Just over 2 kg of metal was used to manufacture it. It was designed by Frederick Millward Grey of the School of Fine Arts, North Adelaide, and made under his personal supervision by an Adelaide firm of silversmiths.

The Mace head forms an orb, representing the world, and features a book—a symbol of learning, and a design of gum leaves on matted ground. On either side of the orb, the University’s Coat of Arms is featured along with the motto: Sub Cruce Lumen.

The first to bear it was KH Boykett, President of the Students Council. This was during a Jubilee procession at St Peter’s Cathedral, which marked the 50th anniversary since classes first commenced. To this day, it remains a University tradition that the chosen bearer precedes the Chancellor at graduation ceremonies, wielding the Mace for their protection.

The University of Adelaide: 150 Years of Making History.  Preserving a legacy.  p.179