The First of May 1851 Box by Winterhalter

Please note that this product is handmade to order and will take approximately 8 weeks to deliver.

In commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the opening of the Royal Albert Hall and the 170th Anniversary of the Great Exhibition, Halcyon Days is delighted to release this exquisite, limited edition enamel box featuring a glorious image: 'The First of May 1851 by German painter, Franz Xaver Winterhalter. 

A blissful scene, and one symbolising purity and innocence, Queen Victoria holds her son, Prince Arthur who presents his namesake godfather, Arthur, Duke of Wellington with a posy of lily of the valley - a flower traditionally used as a good luck charm on 1 may, to mark the beginning of Spring. In exchange, the Duke bestows his godson with a bejewelled casket. The 1 May holds great significance marking the birthday of both Prince Arthur and The Duke of Wellington as well as the opening day of the Great Exhibition.

Rays of sunshine highlight Crystal Palace in the distance and Prince Albert, wearing field-marshal uniform with the Golden Fleece badge and ribbon and star of the garter, stands behind Queen Victoria, who is shown to wear the same rich pink and silver outfit and Sunray fringe Tiara worn to the opening of the Great Exhibition on 1 May 1851.

Limited Edition: 50