Rare material from the coronation of Queen Victoria sent to Anne-Sophia, Dowager Lady Rendlesham, including a signed invitation, a printed document pertaining to the dress of the attending peers and peeresses, and a letter apologizing for the erroneous omission of her name on a list of attendees. The printed invitation, signed at the head "Victoria R," is one page, 8 x 12.5, May 9, 1838, and reads, in part: "We greet you well. Whereas the Twenty eighth day of June next is appointed for the Solemnity of Our Royal Coronation. These are to Will and Command you (all excuses set apart) to make your personal attendance on Us at the time abovementioned furnished and appointed as to your Rank and Quality appertaineth, there to do and perform all such Services as shall be requited and belong unto you." Countersigned at the conclusion by the Earl Marshal, the Duke of Norfolk. Accompanied by the original envelope, with paper seal.
Includes a printed two-page document entitled "The Earl Marshal's Orders concerning the Robes, Coronets. &c which are to be worn by the Peers and Peeresses at the Coronation of Her Most Sacred Majesty Queen Victoria," outlining the dress code for the occasion: "These are to give notice, to all Peers who attend at the Coronation of Her Majesty, that the Robe or Mantle of the Peers be of Crimson Velvet, edged with Miniver, the Cape furred with Miniver pure, and powdered with Bars or Rows of Ermine, according to their Degree." Also includes a letter from the Earl Marshal's Office, informing "the Dowager Rendlesham that Her Ladyship's name was omitted by mistake in the List of Peeresses present at the Coronation of Her Majesty," and that "the Medal will now be delivered to Her Ladyship without further delay." In fine condition, with a block of faint toning.
The coronation of Queen Victoria, held at Westminster Abbey on June 28, 1838, marked the beginning of an era that would come to define an entire century. At just 18 years old, Victoria ascended the throne amidst a wave of excitement and anticipation. Her coronation ceremony was a grand spectacle attended by dignitaries, aristocrats, and commoners alike. Clad in a resplendent gown adorned with jewels, Victoria took the coronation oath and was anointed with holy oil, officially becoming the Queen of the United Kingdom. The event was not only a symbol of Victoria's personal ascension but also represented the stability and continuity of the British monarchy. Victoria's reign would go on to span over six decades, during which the British Empire experienced significant growth and transformation remembered as the 'Victorian Age.'