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5d ago

Queen Elizabeth II’s 185-Year-Old Christening Robe to Go on Public Display for the First Time

The display anchors a centenary exhibition surveying Queen Elizabeth II’s style through about 200 garments.

Queen Elizabeth holding King Charles at his christening; Prince Charles and Princess Diana holding Prince William at his christening
Queen Victoria holds Prince Edward, who would go on to become King Edward VIII—and later, the Duke of Windsor—at his christening in 1894.

Overview

  • The robe will be shown at The King’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace, from April 10 to October 18, 2026, on the site of the former private chapel where Elizabeth was christened.
  • Created in 1841 for Princess Victoria by Janet Sutherland, the gown is made of cream Spitalfields silk overlaid with Honiton lace.
  • The garment was worn at 62 royal christenings, including the future Queen in 1926 and later King Charles III, Princes William and Harry.
  • Conservation work included repairs in the 1960s and a recent 100-hour treatment by Royal Collection Trust textile conservator Cecilia Oliver.
  • A replica commissioned in 2004 by the late Queen from dresser Angela Kelly remains in ceremonial use, while the display includes the original bonnet, shawl, sash, bows, ribbons and the Queen’s handwritten wearers’ list.