This diminutive 3in (8cm) high silver picture frame – pierced and engraved with the VR monogram and with a monochrome print of Queen Victoria – is believed to be one of a number commissioned by the royal household and given as tokens of appreciation.
Hallmarked for London 1885, the frame is stamped to the reverse Thornhill & Co, 114 New Bond St and bears the date 1882 to the base. The year was an auspicious one for the queen: she passed 45 years on the throne – thereby becoming the longest-reigning female ruler at that time – and escaped unhurt when an attempt was made on her life.