The Prince of Wales's Tour of India in 1875-6
Albert Edward's tour aimed to strengthen ties between the two countries
Arm guards
Eighteenth centuryRCIN 11496
When the Prince visited Gwalior, the Maharaja organised a grand military review, which included 8,000 soldiers. Russell noted the dazzling armour of those partaking in the review:
Some wore damascened chain-armour armlets and thigh-pieces inlaid with gold. One [wore] chain-armour covered with gold plaques inlaid with pearls; another wore necklaces of pearls and emeralds over an enamelled breast-plate of fine steel
William Howard Russell
As a gift from the Maharaja of Gwalior, the Prince received this ornate pair of armguards made of gold and lined with silk. The handguards are embroidered with diamonds and pearls.