duchessofyork

Rings a big bell ...

Via John Spooner's comment on the above photo ... "The "Prince of Wales" photo: it looks like the future Gerorge[sic] V, who became Prince of Wales in 1901. However, as Duke of York, he and the Duchess stayed at Kilkenny Castle from 19th to 24th April 1899 (Belfast News-letter)."

Interestingly, the National Archives has an entry for a photo described as: "Photograph 11½ x 9½ group of fifteen figures including the Duke and Duchess of York (in centre) on the occasion of the Royal visit to Kilkenny Castle, six ladies and one gentleman seated, eight gentlemen standing, the Duke standing behind the Duchess seated, portraits in background." However, it also says "Copyright owner and author of work: August Nielsen, Rose Inn Street, Kilkenny. Form completed 5 May 1899.".

Mary of Teck is wearing her Shamrock brooch again:

2nd from the right front row doesn't look at all happy.

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_of_Teck (aka Duchess of York and Queen Mary) Edward [en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edward_VIII] was the first child of the Duke and Duchess of York, born 23 June 1894.

Given that she's being referred to as Princess of Wales, the (original?) photo must date from between late 1901 (when her husband George became Prince of Wales) and 1910 (when he became King). Princess Mary of Teck (also known as 'May')

Over on Pinterest I see this image labelled: HRH the Duchess of York (later HM Queen Mary) wearing the diamond and emerald shamrock brooch she later left to her daughter-in-law Marina Duchess of Kent and now worn by Princess Michael of Kent.

And indeed, here is Princess Micheal of Kent with the brooch.

This clipping from the Glasgow Herald, July 5th 1893 suggests it was a wedding gift from Sir Frederick and Lady Milner, although it says four leafed rather than 3.

Her wedding dress featured rose, thistle and shamrock motifs for England,Scotland, and Ireland. No leeks or daffodils?