George III recovered from his first bout of serious illness in early 1789. The improvement in the king’s health was widely celebrated. His eldest daughter, Charlotte, Princess Royal arranged a ‘Gala’ evening at Windsor on 1 May 1789 to celebrate the King’s return to health and it has been suggested that this fan may have been decorated for this particular occasion. Princess Elizabeth adorned the leaf of the fan with her father’s crown and cipher: GR. Inscribed around the edge of the fan in gold paint is the motto: Health is restored to ONE and Happiness to Millions.