Description
This exceedingly rare and historically significant antique program, dating to 1919, commemorates a formal banquet hosted by the City of Cardiff in honor of His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales, later known as King Edward VIII. The banquet celebrated Prince Edward's appointment as an honorary Freeman of the City and County Borough of Cardiff, marking a prestigious moment in Welsh and royal history.
The program features a gold leaf-embossed coat of arms for the City of Cardiff, symbolizing its official and ceremonial importance. Adding to its rarity, the program includes the original autograph of Edward VIII, signed as "Edward, Prince of Wales" in black fountain pen ink. The document is co-signed by the Lord Mayor, Councilor Amos C. Kirk, J.P., alongside other prominent figures from Cardiff's high society of the era.
Measuring approximately 8.25 inches by 9.75 inches, the program is preserved in its original condition, with minor marks and stains consistent with its age. Despite these, it remains a museum-quality artifact, embodying both royal and local heritage.
Historical Context:
Edward VIII (1894–1972), as Prince of Wales, was a celebrated figure of his time, representing modernity and charisma. This 1919 event in Cardiff honored his service and connection to Wales, emphasizing his role as a bridge between royalty and the people. His later abdication in 1936 to marry Wallis Simpson remains one of the most defining moments in British royal history.
This one-of-a-kind program is a testament to the royal traditions and civic pride of the City of Cardiff, making it an invaluable artifact for collectors, historians, and institutions interested in British and Welsh royal history. Its unique combination of royal autograph, ceremonial significance, and high-quality craftsmanship ensures its place as a cherished historical document.
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