Spectacular costumes from The Crown and Bridgerton, and an original Maid of Honour’s dress from the Queen’s Coronation, are among the stars of a major new exhibition at Blenheim Palace.
Running until 30th July, ‘Royal Connections’ highlights the enduring relationship between the Marlboroughs and the monarchy dating back to the creation of the Palace in 1705.
Original items on display include a newly-restored crown worn by Queen Anne, a white coronation suit worn by Lord Ivor at the coronation of George V in 1911 and the 10th Duke and Duchess’ Peerage robes and coronets for the coronation of King George VI in 1937.
As well as the original outfits, the exhibition also features a selection of regency-inspired costumes from seasons one and two of Bridgerton including ornate embroidered dresses and headpieces from the Debutante Ball and Queen Victoria’s Coronation Robes from the TV series Victoria, which was worn by Jenna Coleman.
Among the highlights of the exhibition is the stunning Maid of Honour dress worn by Lady Rosemary Muir, née Spencer-Churchill, at the Queen’s Coronation in 1953 and designed by the Queen’s dressmaker Sir Norman Hartnell.
As well as the original Maid of Honour dress, visitors can view an interpretation of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation dress, ‘anointing’ gown and supertunica, created by award winning costume designer, Michele Clapton and worn by Claire Foy in the Netflix series The Crown.
Blenheim Palace was built as a gift to John Churchill, 1st Duke of Marlborough, from Queen Anne and a grateful nation in thanks for his victory at the Battle of Blenheim in 1704.
Alongside the original and reinterpreted dresses and costumes the exhibition also features unique artefacts, objects, painting, letters and photographs showcasing the enduring relationship between the two families.
