Summary

Two sepia stereographic prints mounted on card depicting the Duke & Duchess of Cornwall & York leaving the Exhibition Building in an open horse-drawn carriage after the opening of the first Federal Parliament on 9 May 1901, pubilshed by George Rose, Melbourne. The southern façade of the Exhibition Building takes up the background and is decorated with bunting and flags.

The opening of the Australian Parliament was an occasion for great celebrations in Melbourne. Ten days of festivities (from 6-16 May) were planned to mark the Federation of the new nation and honour the Royal visitors, the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall and York. The city was transformed with decorations - flags, bunting, colourful lights and festive arches - and a series of public events were held, including a military tattoo and several street parades. Unprecedented numbers of people arrived in Melbourne from the rest of Victoria and throughout Australia to take part in the celebrations.

Description of Content

The Duke & Duchess of Cornwall and York leaving the Exhibition Building in an open horse-drawn carriage after the opening of the first Federal Parliament on 9 May 1901. They are accompanied by liveried attendants and escorted by mounted soldiers. The southern façade of the Exhibition Building takes up the background and is decorated with bunting and flags. The Royal carriage is passing through a guard of honour formed by the Victorian cadets.

Physical Description

Two almost identical sepia stereographic prints mounted on thick grey backing card carrying the name of George Rose, publisher.

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