For the first time in its 185-year history, the christening robe worn by generations of British Royals is coming out of the wardrobe and into the spotlight.
The christening gown will be on show at the Royal Collection Trust’s new exhibition ‘Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style‘, offering the largest display ever staged of her clothing.
Opening from 10th April at The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace, the garment will be one of the many items seen at the landmark exhibition to mark the 100th birthday of the late Queen.
Crafted in 1841 for Queen Victoria’s eldest daughter, also called Victoria, the christening gown has been worn by 62 royal babies, including Charles III.
The robe is a masterclass in mid-19th century British craftsmanship, having been designed by Janet Sutherland who was Queen Victoria’s personal embroiderer, and features cream Spitalfields silk from East London, and fine Honiton lace from Devon.
After being repaired in the 1960s, the original grew too fragile for use. In 2004, Elizabeth II commissioned an exact replica from her dresser, Angela Kelly, which has been used for all royal christenings since.
Lady Louise was the first to use it.
The choice of venue for the exhibition holds significance, as the gallery stands on the site of the former chapel at the palace, where Elizabeth II was christened in May 1926, at just one month old. Here, the young Princess wore the robe.
The private chapel was later destroyed during the Blitz.
Accompanying the gown, visitors will see the bonnet, silk satin shawl, sash, bows and ribbons that were also made at the same time, embroidered with national emblems.
Alongside, we get a glimpse into Elizabeth II’s documentation of the gown’s history, listing some of the babies to have worn the robe; this was a tradition started by her grandmother, Queen Mary, after the robe came into her care from Queen Victoria.
The note highlights the importance of the robe for the Royal Family as an heirloom and symbol of continuity.
To prepare the original for its public debut, Royal Collection Trust textile conservator Cecilia Oliver spent 100 hours repairing holes and reinforcing the fabric on the Robe. She said that ‘it has been lovingly cared for over the generations – we even found a note on its box instructing that it be washed in natural spring water after use, which helps explain its remarkable condition despite such frequent use’.
‘However, after 185 years and 62 christenings, it was in need of conservation. It has been an honour and a privilege to work on such a special historic garment.’
You can book tickets to see the christening robe and Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style, here.
