Re: Cousin Toria

[Eddie_uk]

Well Queen Mary still being very much alive must be partly a reason, many of the jewels we see today did come from her and of course she gave many wonderful ones to the present Queen on her marriage, so the QEQM missed out on those. I'm sure the collection must have contained so many more though.....

[ashdean]

I do wonder about the fitness of some Eddie! I really do! But I would rather see them on born in the purple Princesses than say God forbid..... Chelsy Davie (Is that how one is supposed to spell it?) as the future Princess Henry! Saying that, I hope that, if Ms Middleton does snare her Prince, that she gets the Rundell! It would be lovely to see it for real!

Its a great pity that among the tiaras in store there isnt a "ivy wreath" that would be very appropriate for Miss Middleton who has clung  like Ivy!

[ashdean]

One gem whose fate would have been interesting to know was the Diamond and Ruby cross Edward gave Alexandra for one of their anniversaries...we know what became of other parures...how Louise Fife or her daughters received the sapphire diadem and collar AND the amethyst parure etc...but it would be fascinating to know the fate of other gems....no doubt Torias fringe necklace was the one Alexandra wore as a belt on her coronation day!

[Eddie_uk]

This has always been one of my favourite pictures, the ladies are so well dressed. Was it a special occasion does anyone know? Louise particularly looks very stylish.

[grandduchessella]

Perhaps David's christening?

[Eddie_uk]

Yes I wondered that. Initially I thought they where in mourning or rather half mourning. It would be interesting if the newspapers reported whether they where all at David's christening.

[Grace]

David was born on June 23, 1894 and his christening date has been given as July 16 of the same year.  I think he looks a bit old in this photo for it to be taken on the occasion of his christening.  I've always loved this photo too, even though the mood of everyone seems quite sombre in it. 

[Margot]

I'd say that this photograph was from the late winter/early spring of 1896 as Charles of Denmark was present and included in in the group family photograph which means he and Maud were probably already engaged. David looks at least fifteen to eighteen months old to me....just look at his hair and his chubbiness....he was toddling no doubt! Grace you are right.... there is a certain melancholy about this photograph which leaves one wondering!

[Eddie_uk]

  I've always loved this photo too, even though the mood of everyone seems quite sombre in it. 

So true Grace! I wonder if the photo was taken at Sandringham as I recall seeing included in book about Sandringham years ago, unless it was just showing who's who. I think you are right Margot. Maybe Christmas time perhaps, or just a photo opportunity to include Charles (interesting to think he lived on until 1957- would love to of heard his memories!)...Toria looks dressed for winter, or did they wear muffs in summer too I wonder? Gloves most likely..

[Margot]

Could the photograph have been taken in February 1896 at the time of the future George Vi's christening at St Mary Magdalene Church? I too always assumed this photograph was taken at Sandringham! And the family would have been in mourning for Henry of Battenberg at the time! I notice that only Louise appears to be wearing anything remotely bright, which may mean the photograph was taken after the baptism of the baby who was her godson! Thus her being permitted to wear appropriately festive apparel for the occasion. It is just a hunch and I may be completely wrong! If this photograph was taken in February 1896 it would also explain Charles' present as Maud's fiance and the winter clothes!

[Grace]

I did wonder if the christening of the future George VI was the occasion too, Margot, for a start, then I thought "wouldn't they have the baby with them for the photo"?  Maybe he was asleep or something?

[kmerov]

Toria with sister Maud. I'm always amazed by their tiny waists!

[RoyalWatcher]

That's a wonderful photo. Their tiny waists just don't look healthy or attractive (yes, I do realize that it was fashionable) at all. I wonder during the course of their lifetimes how many ribs they broke from wearing those corsets?!?

[Eric_Lowe]

Both princess looked very natural and relaxed. It must be a private snap shot. I think this kind of photo would be found in Frances Dimond's upcoming book, since she like these very much.

[Grace]

Kmerov, what a wonderful photo - I absolutely love it.  May I ask where it is from?

Also, Eric has mentioned a new book by Frances Dimond.  More information, please.  It's probably been mentioned before or even discussed, but I've missed or forgotten it (the brain is not what it once was)!