Prepare to be amazed as we delve into a fascinating piece of history! A 77-year-old relic from Queen Elizabeth's wedding is about to hit the auction block, and it's a real conversation starter.
Back in 1947, when Princess Elizabeth tied the knot with Prince Philip, their wedding cake was a true spectacle. Standing tall at nine feet and weighing an impressive 500 pounds, this cake was a masterpiece. It had four tiers, crafted with an abundance of ingredients: 80 oranges, 660 eggs, and a generous splash of three gallons of navy rum. The Australian Girl Guides generously provided the fruit, and a special slice was even sent back to Australia, preserved with rum and brandy from South Africa.
But here's where it gets intriguing: this cake wasn't just a delicious treat; it was a symbol of unity and connection. Slices were sent to various countries and charities within the Commonwealth, earning it the nickname "The 10,000-mile Wedding Cake." And now, one of those preserved slices is up for grabs, complete with a humble-looking box bearing the inscription, "Presented to Mr. C. Dickman by Princess Elizabeth Nov 20th 1947."
This slice, which has crumbled over the years, was originally given to Cyril Dickman, a beloved member of the royal family who worked closely with both the late Queen and Princess Diana. It's a true piece of history, and a reminder of the global impact of this royal wedding.
And this is the part most people miss: the cake's lucky charms! Fruit cakes traditionally include seven silver charms, each with its own symbolic meaning. From a silver coin to a thimble, a bell, a button, a boot, and a horseshoe, these charms were hidden in the bottom tier, adding a touch of magic to the cake.
But the cake isn't the only item from the wedding to make its way to auction. Just last year, a bridesmaid's gown designed by Norman Hartnell fetched an incredible £37,800. This ivory gown, worn by Lady Elizabeth Lambard, a childhood friend and bridesmaid of the late Queen, is a testament to the fashion and elegance of the era.
Even the official wedding gift list, bound into a book, sold for £11,000 in 2021. This meticulous record of gifts, from the Nizam of Hyderabad's tiara to 500 tins of pineapple from the Premier of Queensland, offers a unique insight into the generosity and diversity of the couple's well-wishers.
So, as we reflect on these fascinating mementos, it's clear that the late Queen's wedding continues to captivate and inspire. But what do you think? Are these items a fascinating glimpse into history, or is it all just a bit too much? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
