Mrs Greville skilfully cultivated relationships with Edward VII and successive British monarchs, regularly hosting Queen Mary, King George V's wife, for tea and the future King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother.

She was a guest at coronations and was recognised for her contribution to charitable organisations. In July 1922, was made a Dame of the British Empire, a title she rarely used, but nevertheless a marker of her social standing.

Royal cyphers

Edward VII brooch, gold, enamel, rose-cut diamonds

Collingwood & Co., c.1905

Edward VII brooch, rubies, gold, rose-cut diamonds

Collingwood & Co., c. 1910

Damehood

Damehood of Order of the British Empire, silver-gilt and enamel, 1922

A Starburst medal, silver-gilt and enamel

1922

Royal gifts

Circular box, a gift from Queen Mary

c.1910–30, blue enamel and gold

An oval snuff box, a gift from King Edward VII

c.1909, mother of pearl, tortoiseshell, shagreen and silver-gilt

All photos © National Trust Images/David Brunetti Photography, unless otherwise stated.

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25 Apr 2022