Parasol with Presentation Case 1851
Silk, Honiton lace, gold, enamel, diamonds, citrine, rubies, emeralds and velvet | 75.8 cm (whole object) | RCIN 72107
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Pink silk parasol trimmed with Honiton lace. The handle is chased and embossed, and entwined with the Garter ribbon terminating in a gem-set pommel with a large citrine inset at the end. The enamelled hand, with a bracelet inscribed ‘I GOVERN’, acts as the opening mechanism. With the original presentation case of dark blue velvet, embossed on the cover with a crowned ‘VA’ monogram.
The rich materials and elaborate design of this grand parasol indicate a specially commissioned piece. However, the ‘Royal Victoria’ - as this model of parasol was named - was advertised in the Illustrated London News in March 1851 by Cheek & Marsh of the Golden Perch, Oxford Street, London.
Stamped: Royal Victoria I A Boss Patentee; engraved: I GOVERN
Text adapted from Victoria & Albert: Art & Love, London, 2010Provenance
Possibly presented to Queen Victoria at the Great Exhibition opening ceremony, 1 May 1851
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Creator(s)
(nationality)Acquirer(s)
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Medium and techniques
Silk, Honiton lace, gold, enamel, diamonds, citrine, rubies, emeralds and velvet
Measurements
75.8 cm (whole object)
Alternative title(s)
'Royal Victoria’