Search results

Start typing

In order to pursue his ambitions in France, Henry VIII formed an alliance with the Holy Roman Emperor, Maximilian I. This painting records their meeting and the main events pertaining to Henry’s first campaign against the French in 1513.

The composit
European Armour in the Royal Collection

An introduction to European armour in the Royal Collection.

AUGUSTUS CHARLES PUGIN (1762-1832)

Carlton House: The Armoury

1814

RCIN 917092

This watercolour is the only surviving image of the Armoury at Carlton House where, as Prince of Wales and then Prince Regent, George IV (1762–1830) collected an astonishing array of armours, weapons and militaria. Visible are a pikeman's armour, the mounted Indian armour of Tipu Sultan, and two miniature cannon, all of which are still in the Royal Collection. The room was one of several making up the Armoury.

The Prince's interests and the range of his collection were all-embracing. European armours cohabited with North American tomahawks, Indian elephant goads, Japanese swords, Malayan krises and African bows and arrows. One observer wrote that ‘so extensive and multifarious are the objects of this museum, that to be justly appreciated it must be seen’.

In 1811 the Prince was installed as Regent and celebrated with a number of fêtes and gatherings at Carlton House. One account of these festivities describes a footman performing his duties wearing full-plate armour.


    The income from your ticket contributes directly to The Royal Collection Trust, a registered charity. The aims of The Royal Collection Trust are the care and conservation of the Royal Collection, and the promotion of access and enjoyment through exhibitions, publications, loans and educational activities.