This came up in another forum and it's probably better placed here.
Re: the Royal Family Order of the UK. It began in the early 1800's. For most monarchs it has been awarded to a handful to two dozen close female relations. We don't know for sure - because it is a private award and many people who might have received it may not have had occasion to wear it.
Is it likely Charles will continue the tradition when he ascends to to the crown? If so - when might he initiate the practice - in the first year of reign, later? I know it is privately given, but what seems to be the practice and will it continue. Will it continue as a painted piece or revert to the cast pieces of previous reigns? (that last is always easier to match with a ball gown of striking color, I think).
I ask because Charles is generally thought to favor a modestly sized working Royal Family. His interests don't run to the monarchy for monarchy's sake side of things. Generally, the family has progressed to one that is more focused on the good of the realm and less on the trappings of the reign.
Certainly, the "gift to give the female side of the family something to wear on their gown" becomes less important as most female members of the family head regiments, have the VO, Garter, Thistle, Bath and/or BE for recognition of their contributions. There is less need to come up with something for an idle female cousin to wear with a tiara. The cousin is probably out winning Olympic Medals
.
If anyone knows the history of the Family order in previous reigns, I'd be interested to know when in the reign it begins to show up?
I also have wondered if anyone knows if a "batch" of these painted pieces are created at one time and then given out till a new batch is needed? If so, have there been noted differences in the copies?
I also have wondered if these family orders revert to the crown on death of the recipient. I have always assumed they would remain cherished family pieces, but one never knows.
Thanks for your opinions or information, in advance.
