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Queen Victoria mourning outfit including underwear offered at $1,550 auction
We expect a mourning outfit worn by Queen Victoria to smash its estimate on June 30
Paul Fraser Collectibles, Friday 15 June 2012
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A complete mourning outfit worn by Queen Victoria is coming to a UK auction on June 30, armed with an extremely conservative estimate.
The striking 1880s black ensemble comprises a silk taffeta and bomberdine bodice, coupled with a matching 43 inch waist grosgrain skirt. Victoria adopted the mourning-look following the 1861 death of her husband, Prince Albert, to typhoid fever.
 Quintessential Queen Victoria |
There is also a black straw hat with mourning veil, mounted with an ostrich feather. The hat was made by the queen's milliner, Robert Heath of Hyde Park Corner.
A pair of circa 1885 leather boots with elasticated sides will also feature.
And then there are the undergarments, which will really get hearts racing. They consist of a pair of silk bloomers and a chemise, both monogrammed with VR for "Victoria Regina".
We are confident that this collection, purchased by the consigner at a house sale in the 1970s, will make a mockery if its £1,000 estimate, considering the archetypal nature of the outfit, the enduring fascination with Queen Victoria, and previous auction results.
A pair of Queen Vic's white silk bloomers alone sold for £9,375 in 2011, while a pair of the current British monarch's undergarments achieved £11,390 last month.
"It is wonderful to be up and close to a full costume attire which speaks volumes about our 19th century queen," said the auction house's textiles expert, Notty Hornblower.
Paul Fraser Collectibles has a Queen Victoria signature on an appointment letter currently available to collectors - a superb opportunity to buy memorabilia connected with the longest reigning British monarch for under £1,000.
Recent and related articles
· Top five most fascinating royal memorabilia | 30 May 2012
· Queen's investment-grade memorabilia to receive jubilee boost | 29 May 2012
· Queen Elizabeth II's knickers bring a jubilant $17,263 | 28 May 2012
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Images: Hansons Auctioneers and Valuers
