Edward VII's mistress's Faberge cigarette case sparks royal scandal at Buckingham Palace

In April 2025, Buckingham Palace in the United Kingdom will host a significant exhibition titled The Edwardians: Age of Elegance. This exhibition will showcase over 300 royal mementos, with nearly half never before seen outside of the Royal Family. Among the items to be displayed is a Fabergé cigarette case first given to King Edward VII by his mistress Alice Keppel in 1908. The case features a captivating design of a diamond-encrusted snake, symbolizing eternal love, and has a storied history involving prominent royal figures. Visitors will have the chance to view a variety of items collected by Edward VII and his contemporaries, reflecting the grandeur of the Edwardian era. The presented collection will also include elegant jewellery such as Alexandra's Dagmar necklace and Mary's Love Trophy Collar necklace, both making their public debut during this exhibition. Additionally, the event will present items that encapsulate the dramatic shift from opulence to the somber realities of World War I, marking a pivotal change in royal collecting trends and the monarchy's representation in society. The exhibition aims to illustrate the unique blend of tradition and modernity experienced by the British royal family during a transitional period in Europe, where styles and social dynamics were quickly evolving. It will present displays that evoke the interiors of royal residences filled with decorative objects and family photographs. This celebration of history not only serves to honor the majestic past but also aims to educate the public about the lives of the royal family during this impactful time in British history. Attendees will also encounter personal items from the royal family’s travels across five continents, including mementos from visits to places like Norway and Australia. The exhibition comes at a significant time as it seeks to narrate the duality of the Edwardian age's glamour and the subsequent impact of the war that followed. As Britain experienced a period steeped in reflection following the war, the exhibition will also highlight how the royal family adapted their collecting practices to pay tribute to those who served and sacrificed during the conflict. Furthermore, it will acknowledge the broader societal changes resulting from the war, underscoring the historical importance of these royal artifacts in understanding a rapidly changing monarchy and world. The Edwardians: Age of Elegance exhibition is set to captivate and educate visitors by spotlighting the opulent lifestyles and significant historical events that shaped the monarchy during a crucial era in British history. By exploring these royal treasures, attendees will gain insights into both the personal lives of the royal family and the larger cultural context of the time, enhancing their appreciation of the delicate balance between tradition and modernity in a world on the brink of major change.