2-982-162 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The Prince of Wales Investing a Native Prince with the Grand Cross of the Star of India at Calcutta, 1876. The future King Edward VII bestows a decoration on an Indian ruler. 'As the Prince ascended the dais the band played the National Anthem...The Grand Commanders all bowed to him as he passed and as he seated himself, the Princes alone following liis example. The great tent now presented a most brilliant appearance. In two lines in front of the central figures on the throne were the great Princes of India, ablaze with jewels. Behind them were their attendants, scarcely less brilliant. At the further end of the line stood the Royal servants, with fans and punkahs of crimson and gold...Beyond were many other chiefs in wonderful diamonds and other precious stones, among them the deputation from Nepaul and the ambassadors from Burmah with their pearl helmets'. From "Illustrated London News", 1876.