A remarkable slice of history, preserved since the royal wedding of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in 1947, has recently made headlines after being auctioned for £2,200 (around Rs 2.40 lakh).
This unique artifact, kept in its original packaging, highlights the ongoing fascination with royal memorabilia and offers a rare glimpse into the grandeur of the Queen’s early life and the historic celebrations that accompanied her marriage.
A Piece of Royal History: Queen Elizabeth’s Wedding Cake
The slice of wedding cake from Queen Elizabeth’s marriage to Prince Philip has been kept in pristine condition since the couple’s celebrated union on November 20, 1947. The cake, described as “very rare” by the auction house Reeman Dansie, has remained preserved in its original packaging and includes a small box with a silver emblem of Princess Elizabeth.
Inside the box, an intricate doily has helped protect the cake for more than seven decades, even though it’s no longer considered edible.
The original recipient of this slice was Marion Polson, who served as a housekeeper at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh, Scotland, from 1931 to 1969. This thoughtful gift from Buckingham Palace to Polson marked her years of service and loyalty to the royal family.
Alongside the cake, Polson received a personal letter from Princess Elizabeth herself, thanking her for a wedding gift. In the note, the future queen expressed her appreciation, saying, “We are both enchanted with the dessert service; the different flowers and the beautiful colouring will, I know, be greatly admired by all who see it.
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This is a present which we shall use constantly, and whenever we do, we shall think of the kindness and good wishes for our happiness which it represents.” This letter, typewritten and signed by Princess Elizabeth, adds a personal touch to the preserved slice of cake, emphasizing the significance of the royal household’s gratitude towards its devoted staff.
The Iconic 1947 Royal Wedding Cake: A Monumental Creation
The original wedding cake created for Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip’s marriage was a true marvel, reflecting the scale and importance of the event. Towering at nine feet and weighing an impressive 500 pounds (around 227 kilograms), this masterpiece was as intricate as it was grand.
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The cake was adorned with coats of arms from both families, symbolizing the union of British and Greek royalty. Additionally, it featured sugar sculptures representing some of the couple’s favorite activities, adding a personal touch to the opulent creation.
This monumental cake provided approximately 2,000 slices for wedding guests, with extra portions distributed to charities and organizations. Furthermore, in a touching nod to tradition, one tier was saved for the christening of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip’s first child, Prince Charles.
Over the years, a few pieces of this iconic cake have been preserved and auctioned, creating a niche yet highly valued market for collectors of royal memorabilia. These preserved pieces serve as a lasting reminder of the elegance and historical significance of the 1947 wedding, capturing a unique moment in time.
The Royal Memorabilia Market: Why These Slices Remain Highly Sought After
Royal memorabilia, especially items linked to significant events like weddings, have always attracted avid collectors and enthusiasts. The fascination with royal life and legacy is a phenomenon that has endured across generations, fueled by the unique blend of history, tradition, and glamour associated with the British monarchy.
Slices of Queen Elizabeth’s 1947 wedding cake, in particular, represent a rare opportunity to own a tangible piece of royal history. These preserved cake slices not only offer a direct link to one of the most celebrated weddings of the 20th century but also highlight the artistry and craftsmanship that went into royal celebrations.
The recent auction, where this slice fetched £2,200, is not an isolated incident. In 2013, a similar slice from the 1947 cake was auctioned by Christie’s and sold for £1,750 (around Rs 1.91 lakh), illustrating the enduring value of these collectibles.
Royal enthusiasts view these items as more than mere artifacts; they are symbols of continuity and connection to a royal lineage that holds cultural significance worldwide. Collectors see these pieces as investments in history, as each item carries stories of loyalty, tradition, and personal significance tied to the royal family.
As this latest auction demonstrates, the demand for royal memorabilia remains strong, with items associated with Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip continuing to captivate and inspire. For collectors and admirers alike, owning a piece of history, no matter how small, is a way to keep the legacy of the monarchy alive, paying homage to an era that still resonates in the hearts of people across the globe.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏