Thursday, April 21, 2011

Object of the Day: A Souvenir of Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee

Though her coronation took place in 1953, Queen Elizabeth II became sovereign in 1952 upon the death of her father, King George VI. With her reign second only to Queen Victoria’s in length, Elizabeth II has guided her empire through the best of times and the worst.


In 1977, she celebrated twenty five years as monarch, and all of Britain joined in honoring their Queen for her Silver Jubilee. As is British tradition, a host of souvenir items were created. Among them was this attractive plate. Rimmed in a regal Wedgwood blue, the plate bears a flattering portrait of Her majesty in a roundel surmounted by the Imperial crown and flanked by the Royal unicorn and lion.

As we approach Elizabeth’s Golden Jubilee in 2012, we can reflect on how both the empire and her family have changed and grown. With next week’s marriage of her grandson, William of Wales and Catherine Middleton, the Royal Family enters into a new and exciting phase. However, one thing remains constant—the love of Elizabeth II for her family and for Britain.







No comments: