On this day in 1837, King William IV of England died. His 18 year old niece, Victoria—his late, older brother's daughter—immediately became Queen (though her coronation ceremony would be held a year and a week later). British succession rules (at the time) strictly observed the tradition of primogeniture, which heavily favored first-born males. But Victoria was the next (legitimate) successor—despite her sex. When Queen Victoria died on 22 January 1901, she had held the throne for 63 years, 216 days—the longest-reigning British monarch in history (until Queen Elizabeth II surpassed her record with 70 years, 214 days).
The Victorian Age (1837 to 1901) witnessed tremendous (and disruptive) change throughout the world—in the realms of society, industry, science, politics and the military. And the British Empire (for better or worse) expanded greatly—in area and in influence. Under Victoria, it was noted that "The Sun never sets on the British Empire."
Victoria married her German first cousin, Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. They were both 20 years old; as she was the Queen, she proposed to him. They had nine children, eight of whom married (strategically) into the various royal families of Europe. It was said that Victoria was "the grandmother of Europe." Victoria was deeply in-love with Albert. And, as their years together increased, she became more dependent on his advice and assistance. It was important to him to have significant work to accomplish. And Albert wished to instill his progressive (19th Century) social views into his new country.
Albert died in 1861 at the tender age of 42. Victoria fell into deep mourning. In fact, for the rest of her 39 years, she work black. Initially, Victoria withdrew from public life. This absence from view gave a boost British Republicans (who did not support monarchy). But she continued her duties as sovereign, however, much less publicly.
Queen Victoria had a significant influence over issues of fashion, style and social behavior. She was strongly associated with a "strict personal morality" (especially sexual morality). And her choice of jewelry—which became heavier, more serious and dour after the death of Albert—influenced the jewelry choices of many British women. Show above, a sterling silver Victorian English brooch (hallmarked Chester, 1887). Like much Victorian jewelry, it has a serious (yet handsome) demeanor—befitting a strong, mature, serious woman. It would look terrific on a woman's tailored lapel (and even on a man's lapel—for men confident enough to wear it). Click on the photo above to learn more about it.
Though our Greenwich Village store is now permanently closed, LEO Design is still alive and well! Please visit our on-line store where we continue to sell Handsome Gifts (www.LEOdesignNYC.com).
To arrange a visit our Pittsburgh showroom (by private appointment only), please call 917-446-4248.