H.R.H. The Prince of Wales reviewing troops, circa 1912.

A very unusual vintage photograph, measuring 9¾ x 7½ ins, 248 x 190mm overall but with the four corners clipped, pasted to an old album card, some creasing but a very clear image. The Prince is shown reviewing colonial troops in London. Some wear solar topis and some slouch hats. Behind the the Prince of Wales [later Edward VIII and Duke of Windsor after abdication] are his sister Princess Mary, [later the Princess Royal and Countess of Harewood], and his younger brother Prince George [later Duke of Kent]. The Prince became a midshipman on leaving Osborne in 1911 and here he wears the midshipman’s uniform. The occasion and the identity of the troops invite further research. may31/2