The banquet for Prince Leopold's christening, 28 June 1853

Until the building of a new Ballroom in the early 1850s, the Picture Gallery in Buckingham Palace was used by Queen Victoria as the setting for State Banquets and large official or family gatherings. On such occasions the table was laid with silver gilt from George IV's collection. This watercolour shows the Christening Banquet held by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert for their son Prince Leopold (1853–84), in 1853. Large shell tureens made by Rundells for George IV's Grand Service were used, shown here on the table in this watercolour. A large array of gilt plate was also displayed on the far wall.