Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Events > Parades > Lord Mayors Show
King and Queen going to open Festival of Britain, 1951
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
King and Queen going to open Festival of Britain, 1951
King George VI and Queen Elizabeth pictured in an open carriage making their way along Fleet Street to St. Pauls Cathedral to open the Festival of Britain in May 1951. The picture shows a ceremony taking place at Temple Bar where the ancient custom of offer the King the Citys Sword of Office was observed. The King is seen touching the Sword offered to him by the Lord Mayor, Alderman Denys Lowson, in token of acceptance. Date: 1951
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 7189625
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10510991
1951 Ceremonies Ceremony Crowds Custom Festival Procession Elizabeth Fleet
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Events
> Parades
> Lord Mayors Show
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Royalty
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Sights
> St Pauls Cathedral
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this historic photograph, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth make their way through the bustling streets of London to open the Festival of Britain in May 1951. The royal couple, seated in an open carriage, are making their way from the Tower of London to St. Paul's Cathedral, where they will officially begin the festivities. As they approach Temple Bar, an ancient custom is observed. The Lord Mayor of London, Alderman Denys Lowson, extends the City's Sword of Office towards the King. This symbolic gesture represents the transfer of authority from the City to the Monarch, acknowledging his role as the protector of the city. With a gentle touch, King George VI accepts the sword, signifying his acceptance of this responsibility. The crowds lining the streets of Fleet Street, the historic heart of London's printing and publishing industry, cheer and wave as the royal procession passes by. The atmosphere is filled with excitement and anticipation for the upcoming Festival of Britain, which aims to showcase the best of British culture, science, and innovation following the hardships of World War II. This photograph captures a significant moment in British history, as the King and Queen make their way to the cathedral to officially open the Festival, marking a time of hope and renewal for the nation.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
