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Anyone who was lucky enough to visit the recent Fabergé exhibition at London’s Victoria & Albert museum may have spotted an exquisite little model of a Chelsea Pensioner, complete with his Scarlet uniform. This precious little piece was loaned to the exhibition by Her Majesty, from her own personal collection. 

The figure – crafted in St Petersburg – was originally bought by King Edward VII on 22 November 1909, for £49 and 15 shillings. It demonstrates not only the link between British and Russian royalty, but also the enduring connection between the Royal family and the Royal Hospital – dating back to our foundation by King Charles II. 

Human figures are among Fabergé’s rarest creations and – along with the famous imperial jeweller’s Easter eggs -  the most complex to create.  The tiny veteran’s face and hands are crafted from aventurine quartz, his coat of purpurine – a unique and beautiful rich, red glass, his legs and hat from jasper and his cane, buttons and medals from gold.  Other materials include enamel, sapphires and – appropriately – gunmetal.

We are proud to know that this little replica of one of our veterans is among The Queen’s treasured possessions.