God Speed, c. 1893
Oil on panel | RCIN 402147
Rose blooms are strewn like confetti for a newly married couple, making the subject of this painting entirely appropriate as a wedding gift for the future George V and Queen Mary. The fresh colours emphasize the luminous Mediterranean setting, The work can be viewed as a token of the artist's friendship with Edward who visited his studio a number of times. Alma Tadema assisted with the decorations for the 1902 Coronation and was awarded the Order of Merit.