Lot 336: REGINALD EASTON (BRITISH, 1807-1893)

Princess Marie Louise of Schleswig-Holstein (1872-1956), as a child, in white off-the-shoulder frilled lace dress, pink sash, short curled fair hair and blue eyes, holding a bunch of black grapes with foliage in her right hand, seated in a landscape
oval, 3 13/16 in. (97 mm.) high, gilt-metal mount
A typed note by Dr G.C. Williamson accompanying this miniature identifies the sitter as Princess Marie Louise. Dr Williamson compiled a catalogue of the miniatures in the collection of Princesses Marie Louise and Helena Victoria in 1924.

Princess Marie Louise was the second daughter of Prince Christian of Schleswig-Holstein and Princess Helena (see lot 340), daughter of Queen Victoria, and sister of Princess Helena Victoria (see lot 336). She was born at Cumberland Lodge in Windsor Great Park and was named Franziska Josepha Louise Augusta Marie Christiana Helena. During her childhood she resided at Windsor but made frequent visits to relatives in Germany. On one of these trips she met Prince Aribert of Anhalt (1864-1933), who she subsequently married on 6 July 1891 in St. George's Chapel, Windsor. The marriage proved unsuccessful and, nine years after their wedding, their union was annulled.
After the break-up of her marriage the princess involved herself in charitable causes and became a prominent social figure, attending balls, receptions and exhibitions, and often giving speeches at these events. She travelled extensively, enjoyed creative past-times and reading. She and her sister, Princess Helena Victoria, would host parties at Schomberg House on Pall Mall, to which London music followers would be invited.
Princess Marie Louise never re-married and had no children. She died on 8 December 1956 at her home in Berkeley Square, London, and was buried at Frogmore.

Reginald Easton began his career as an engraver but later took up painting portraits in miniature and watercolour. He excelled at painting children and was patronised by the royal family. Miniatures of Princes Christian Victor and Albert, and Princess Victoria Helena of Schleswig-Holstein by Easton were exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1869 and 1873.

No VAT will be charged on the hammer price, but VAT at 17.5% will be added to the buyer's premium, which is invoiced on a VAT inclusive basis.