Here are the best Warhammer 40k Golden Throne dioramas, tabletop gameplay, models, lore, where to find CAD files, and 3D printing options.
Updated December 9th, 2024, by Rob Baer with new information and links to relevant content.
If you’ve ever wandered into the grimdark world of Warhammer 40k, you’ve probably come across some iconic bits of lore, but nothing quite stands out like the Golden Throne. This thing isn’t just a fancy chair; it’s a giant, intricate life-support machine that also happens to be the only thing keeping the galaxy from descending into utter chaos. But if you’re here for the 3D model aspect—don’t worry; we’ve got that covered, too.
The Golden Throne 3D model is a perfect representation of one of the most significant artifacts in the Imperium of Man. Whether you’re planning a diorama or looking to enhance your games, this is the kind of project that demands attention.
40k Golden Throne CAD Model & 3D Printing Options
So, where do you snag a Golden Throne 3D model worthy of the Emperor himself? Fortunately, the Warhammer 40k community is filled with talented creators sharing their work on sites like Thingiverse, Cults3D, and STL Finder. You’ll find models ranging from towering display pieces to scaled-down versions perfect for tabletop play.
- Thingiverse: A popular hub for free 3D models, you’ll find some solid versions of the Golden Throne here. It’s a go-to place for those just starting out and wanting to tinker with ready-made designs.
- Cults3D: If you’re looking for something a bit more polished or unique, Cults3D is a treasure trove of high-quality Warhammer 40k CAD models. The models here often include intricate details and provide customization options.
- STL Finder: This one’s a search engine specifically for STL files. Plug in “Golden Throne,” and boom—you’ll have a list of options faster than the Emperor’s Custodes can swing a power sword. Plus, you’ll find options for both small-scale and larger, display-worthy thrones.
When you grab your model, be sure to check if it’s designed with customization in mind. Some models allow you to tweak things like size or even add your own flair to the design. After all, the Golden Throne isn’t just any chair—it’s the chair.
Whether you want to create an epic diorama of the Emperor’s crumbling throne room or scale it down to fit in with your 32mm models, a well-designed Warhammer 40k Golden Throne 3D CAD model is your ticket to impress. But before you fire up your 3D printer, let’s talk about where to get these CAD models and which printing method will get you the most bang for your buck.
FDM vs. Resin Printing for the Golden Throne
Alright, let’s talk shop. Once you find the perfect 40k Golden Throne CAD model, you’ve got two main options when printing your throne: FDM and resin. Each has its perks, depending on what kind of throne you’re building.
- FDM Printing: This method uses thermoplastic filaments, making it a more affordable option for larger prints. If you’re building a large-scale Golden Throne, FDM printing is your friend. It’s cost-effective, easy to scale up, and works great for printing big chunks of your model. The trade-off? FDM printing isn’t known for crisp, fine details, so while it’s great for the bulkier parts, you might miss out on those intricate decorations.
- Resin Printing: Now, if you’re after the finer details—the swirling motifs, the complex texture of the Emperor’s tech-throne—resin printing is where it’s at. Resin prints provide a much higher resolution, making them perfect for creating a scaled-down version of the Golden Throne that still retains all the jaw-dropping details. The downside? Resin printing can be a bit pricier, and the prints tend to be more fragile. But let’s be honest, for a model this iconic, it’s worth it.
Best Practices for 3D Printing the Golden Throne
So, you’ve picked your model and chosen your printing method. Now let’s talk about how to make sure your Golden Throne 3D model looks like it was crafted by the tech-priests themselves.
FDM Printing Tips:
- Layer Height: Go for a layer height of 0.1 to 0.2 mm for a balance between speed and detail. The lower the layer height, the smoother your throne will look.
- Material Choices: PLA is the most common material, but if you want something sturdier (and fitting for the Emperor’s seat), consider using PETG or ABS for added durability. These materials can handle more stress, which is handy if you’re building a large display piece.
Resin Printing Tips:
- Resolution: Aim for 50 microns or less to capture all the details. You’re working with a model that oozes regal complexity, so you don’t want to miss a single ornate flourish.
- Curing Time: Be sure to cure your prints properly to avoid any warping or cracking. Since resin prints are more delicate, you’ll need to balance your curing time carefully—too much time in the UV light can make your print brittle.
If you want to learn all about 3D printing, check out Rob’s printing tutorial, from buying a printer to changing files here!
What Is the Golden Throne in Warhammer 40k?
For those of you who are not familiar with this monumental contraption, the Golden Throne is located on Terra in the Imperial Palace. It’s where the Emperor of Mankind sits—or, more accurately, where his shattered, near-dead body is kept alive. Without it, well, let’s just say things wouldn’t go too well for humanity.
The throne has a dual purpose: keeping the Emperor’s psychic essence intact while powering the Astronomican, a psychic lighthouse that guides ships across the galaxy. Without this beacon, navigating the warp—Warhammer 40k’s version of intergalactic travel—would be like driving with a blindfold in a thunderstorm. You can see why fans are obsessed with recreating it in miniature form!
The Role of the Golden Throne in the Imperium of Man
So, why does the Emperor of Mankind need this fancy chair? Well, after being mortally wounded during the Horus Heresy (that family feud gone catastrophically wrong), the Emperor was placed on the Golden Throne. This was the only way to keep him in a near-death state, allowing him to focus his immense psychic power on keeping the Astronomican running.
Think of the Astronomican like the GPS of the Imperium, without which their ships would get lost in the dangerous realm of the warp. Navigators rely on this beacon to plot courses through the stars, and it’s the Emperor’s psychic might that powers it all. However, keeping the Emperor hooked up to this device isn’t a simple plug-and-play scenario.
It requires the constant sacrifice of psykers—people with psychic abilities—to fuel the machine and maintain the Emperor’s life. It’s as grim as it sounds, but hey, the Imperium isn’t exactly known for its cuddly politics.
Why the Golden Throne Is Essential in Warhammer 40k Lore
The Golden Throne isn’t just a life-support device—it’s the literal and symbolic keystone of the Imperium. Without it, the Emperor would finally succumb to his injuries, and the galaxy would plunge into chaos. The forces of Chaos (yes, that’s capitalized for a reason) are always waiting for their chance, and if the Emperor’s psychic presence fades, they’ll be tearing through the fabric of reality faster than you can say “warp storm.”
On a narrative level, the Golden Throne represents the Imperium’s reliance on ancient technology that it barely understands. It’s a decaying relic requiring constant maintenance by the tech-priests of the Adeptus Mechanicus, who tinker with it using rites that feel more like magic than engineering. The whole thing speaks to the larger themes of Warhammer 40k: a crumbling empire held together by faith, sacrifice, and machinery that no one really knows how to fix. Learn more about the lore of the Golden Throne here!
As far as 3D models go, the Golden Throne is one of those jaw-dropping pieces that fit perfectly in a display diorama or as a set piece for a narrative-driven tabletop game. Whether you’re building it as a towering centerpiece or a smaller, scaled-down version, the Golden Throne represents both the triumphs and tragedies of the Imperium. Now, who wouldn’t want that in their collection?
How to Use the Warhammer 40k Golden Throne Model in Dioramas and Gameplay
40k Golden Throne Diorama from GMM Studios.
So, you’ve got your hands on the Warhammer 40k Golden Throne 3D model and now you’re probably wondering: “What should I do with it?” Lucky for you, there are a ton of creative ways to use this iconic piece in your Warhammer projects.
Whether you’re looking to craft an awe-inspiring diorama, a tournament-worthy display, or even incorporate it into gameplay, the Golden Throne is more than just a fancy chair. It’s the literal lifeline of the Imperium of Man. Let’s get into some cool ideas for putting this bad boy to good use!
Creating Epic Warhammer 40k Dioramas with the Golden Throne
Imagine this: the Emperor of Mankind, sitting in his Golden Throne, surrounded by the towering walls of the Imperial Palace, while legions of Adeptus Custodes stand guard, ready to defend their eternal master. Sounds awesome, right? Now, this could be your next big Warhammer 40k diorama.
The Golden Throne is a natural focal point in any large-scale Warhammer diorama, especially one depicting a key scene from the lore, like a battle around the Imperial Palace. You could integrate other iconic figures such as Rogal Dorn, standing as the stoic defender, or even build out the sprawling palace halls with smaller figures like the Tech-Priests of the Adeptus Mechanicus, frantically trying to keep the Throne running.
To bring the scene to life, think about combining the Golden Throne with backdrops that include shattered walls, gothic architecture, and piles of rubble, giving your diorama that epic Warhammer feel. And hey, don’t forget the psykers! You can add miniatures to represent the constant stream of sacrifices needed to keep the Throne functioning. It’s dark, but it fits perfectly with the grim atmosphere of the 40k universe. Check out this amazing piece in full detail from GMM here!
The Golden Throne as a Display Piece
Sometimes, the Golden Throne is just too glorious to share the spotlight. It’s such an iconic piece that it deserves to be a stand-alone display, especially if you’re one of those hobbyists who loves showing off intricate models.
Picture this: the Emperor of Mankind, immobile but radiating immense power, sitting in your own custom-built Golden Throne model. You could paint the Throne in gleaming golds and bronzes, or even go for a weathered look to show its age and the strain it’s under. Add some lighting effects (LEDs, anyone?) to make the Throne glow ominously, emphasizing the Emperor’s psychic aura.
This could be a centerpiece for your Warhammer tournaments or hobby exhibitions, drawing attention from across the room. Even for collectors, it’s a fantastic piece to have on your shelf, representing not just a piece of Warhammer lore but the very heart of the Imperium.
Ruler Makes a Great Emperor of Mankind 40k Model:
If you don’t want your Emperor sitting on a throne, the Ruler model is the way to go! The Big guy is back to take over the universe for humanity and crusade across the stars once again! Grab yours here!
Using the Golden Throne in Warhammer 40k Tabletop Gameplay
Alright, tabletop gamers, don’t think we forgot about you! While the Golden Throne might be a bit too large for your standard 32mm games, there are still plenty of ways to incorporate it into Warhammer 40k gameplay.
A scaled-down version of the Throne could serve as an objective in a narrative-driven campaign. Imagine your forces battling for control of the Imperial Palace, with humanity’s fate hanging in the balance. Whether it’s a final showdown between the Imperium and Chaos or an internal power struggle, the Golden Throne becomes a vital objective for both sides.
You could also create custom game objectives where one side must defend the Throne from an invasion while the other tries to sabotage it, leading to high-stakes scenarios. Want to spice it up even more? Add some special rules: if the Throne is damaged, psychic abilities become unpredictable or even dangerous for the rest of the game.
For smaller skirmishes, the 32mm scale Golden Throne can serve as a battlefield element. Maybe it’s tucked away in a heavily fortified room, and your armies have to fight through corridors to reach it, making it the climax of a larger campaign. There are endless possibilities, and the Throne itself can add a narrative weight to your games that few other terrain pieces can match.
Assembling and Painting the 3D Printed Golden Throne
Golden Throne Diorama by White Metal Games
So, you’ve printed the CAD Warhammer 40k Golden Throne 3D model, and now it’s time to turn that plastic throne into a majestic, golden relic worthy of the Emperor himself. This is where things get fun. But before you slap on some gold paint and call it a day, let’s walk through the finer details of painting and maintaining your model. Whether you’re going for a pristine look that screams divine power or a weathered version that shows the Throne’s centuries of wear, we’ve got you covered.
Assembly Tips
If you printed your throne in separate pieces (which is likely), careful assembly is key. Use a strong adhesive like super glue or a two-part epoxy to attach parts securely. Start by assembling the larger base, then work your way up to the intricate details like the armrests and any figures you’ve added, like the Emperor himself. Make sure to hold each piece in place until the glue sets—nothing ruins a model like a misaligned Throne!
Painting the Golden Throne: Techniques and Tools
Golden Throne Diorama conversion by White Metal Games
Painting the Golden Throne is an art form in itself. This isn’t just any chair; this is the most important seat in the galaxy, and it deserves some love. Let’s break down the process so you can capture the intricate details and grandiosity.
Step 1: Prime Time
First thing’s first: always prime your model. Start with a black or grey primer to give yourself a solid base, especially if you’re using metallic paints. A black primer helps create natural shadows in those hard-to-reach areas, making the throne look more ominous—just like it should.
Step 2: Base Coat
Next, go in with your base colors. For a classic look, you’ll want to use metallic gold for the main structure of the Throne. Acrylic paints are your best bet here—easy to use, quick to dry, and forgiving if you make a mistake. Vallejo’s Liquid Gold or Citadel’s Retributor Armour are solid options for nailing that golden, holy glow.
Step 3: Add Depth with Washes
Once your gold is dry, it’s time to make the Throne pop. Use a dark wash like Nuln Oil (the Warhammer painter’s secret weapon) or an Agrax Earthshade to bring out the details. This will settle into the grooves and crevices, creating shadows and giving your throne a more weathered, battle-worn appearance—after all, the Throne has been around for millennia.
Step 4: Highlights and Details
Highlighting is where your Golden Throne really comes to life. Lightly dry-brush some bright silver or lighter gold on the raised areas to make them shine. Don’t forget to add details like the glowing power conduits around the Throne using colors like bright green or blue—just enough to hint at the tech keeping the Emperor alive.
Tips for Maintaining Your Golden Throne Model
For larger display pieces, especially those that will see some handling, it’s important to seal your paint job. A matte or satin varnish spray will protect your hard work from dust, scratches, and the elements. Apply the varnish in light coats, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next. This will keep your Throne looking majestic for years to come.
Maintenance Recommendations
If you’re going for a display piece, consider building a case around your Golden Throne to protect it from dust and light damage. For those using the Throne in gameplay, give it a quick dust-off regularly, and check for any paint chipping—touch-ups are easy if you’ve got the right color palette at hand.
Bringing a Warhammer 40k Golden Throne Model to Life Through CAD & 3D Printing
Whether you’re adding the Golden Throne to a massive diorama or making it the centerpiece of your tabletop game, painting and maintaining this piece will bring your Warhammer 40k project to a whole new level. With the right tools, paints, and a little bit of patience, your 3D-printed throne can look just as magnificent as the one sitting in the Imperial Palace.
All the Latest Warhammer Rules & Model Rumors
What do you think about the 3d Printed and CAD models out there for the Warhammer 40k Golden Throne?
About the Author: Travis Pasch
Travis Pasch
Job Title: Head Writer & Editor
Socials: @paschbass
About Travis Pasch: Travis has been a Warhammer 40k hobbyist since the 1990s, playing the game since Third Edition. Through extensive traveling, he’s seen a lot of the miniatures hobby from across the world, giving him a unique perspective on the latest gaming topics and trends.
Travis’s brother even owns a commission painting studio, where he’s picked up a lot of good advice and techniques for painting Warhammer and tabletop miniatures over the years, as well. Travis joined the Spikey Bits team in 2019 and has been the lead writer since 2020.
Currently, he’s working on converting all his 40k Adeptus Mechanicus models and becoming a true tech enjoyer, complete with both sad and happy robot noises!
