Prince Philip 'couldn't believe' antiquated palace says Brandreth

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The Duke of Edinburgh, who died in April aged 99, was closely involved in planning the exhibition at Windsor Castle, which was originally intended to mark his 100th birthday on June 10. And the eclectic collection is bound to give visitors a revealing glimpse into the much-loved ­royal’s long and eventful life. Highlights include a portrait by British-Australian artist Ralph Heimans, commissioned in 2017 when the Duke retired from ­public duties, and the robe and coronet worn by Philip during the Queen’s Coronation in 1953.

Among the 120 items on show are official gifts Philip received during years of public service.

The headdress was ­presented to him on a visit to Canada in 1973. The cowboy boots, inscribed with his name in gold, were a 1991 gift from Texas.

The 4ft grasshopper-shaped wine cooler was given to the Duke in 1972 by then French President Georges Pompidou.

Other prized possessions include a chess set from Nelson Mandela and a Lotus steering wheel used by 1978 Formula 1 world champion Mario Andretti.

The exhibition, in the state apartments and part of St George’s Chapel, also highlights Philip’s work promoting design and technology and conservation and his close association with Windsor.

Sally Goodsir, curator of decorative arts at the Royal Collection Trust, hopes it will give visitors a chance to reflect on the prince’s achievements.

She said: “Because people couldn’t really gather at the time of his death and the funeral, I think it will give people an opportunity to learn a bit more about him.”

As the exhibition opened, the Queen marked another step towards a return to normality by announcing she will head to Scotland next week for traditional Holyrood Week.

Prince William and Princess Anne will join her for some of her engagements.

The annual royal fixture was cancelled last year because of the pandemic. This year there will be no events involving large crowds. But Buckingham Palace said the week will recognise the work of individuals and communities through “in-person visits by Her Majesty”.

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