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Lot Essay
His Royal Highness The Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester, Knight of the Garter, Knight of the Thistle and last Knight of St Patrick (the Irish Order of Chivalry) was born on 31 March 1900. He was the fourth child and third son of T.R.H.s The Duke and Duchess of York. He was fifth in line of succession to his great-grandmother, Queen Victoria, Empress of India, and was the last Royal Prince to be photographed with The Queen, together with his three elder siblings.
In 1945, Prince Henry was appointed the first Royal Governor General of Australia, the Sovereign's representative and the Head of State of the self-governing dominion. The role demanded a strong rapport with the people of Australia and great diplomatic skill, combined with a profound knowledge of the country, and he performed his responsibilities with exemplary success.
The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester recorded the warmth of their reception, commenting on 'friendly beaming faces' wherever they went. The characteristic Australian candour also appealed greatly to the couple, who were greeted by calls of 'good old Henry', 'hello Dukie', and 'coo-ee' on their official duties.
The Duke of Gloucester's term as Australian Governor-General ended in March 1947, and this Heysen was acquired by the Duke during his tenure.
In 1945, Prince Henry was appointed the first Royal Governor General of Australia, the Sovereign's representative and the Head of State of the self-governing dominion. The role demanded a strong rapport with the people of Australia and great diplomatic skill, combined with a profound knowledge of the country, and he performed his responsibilities with exemplary success.
The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester recorded the warmth of their reception, commenting on 'friendly beaming faces' wherever they went. The characteristic Australian candour also appealed greatly to the couple, who were greeted by calls of 'good old Henry', 'hello Dukie', and 'coo-ee' on their official duties.
The Duke of Gloucester's term as Australian Governor-General ended in March 1947, and this Heysen was acquired by the Duke during his tenure.