United Kingdom. A Portrait of King George VI

A large black and white photograph of King George VI in full dress uniform wearing an Order of the Bath, Royal Victorian Order, and Order of the Garter, with ten piece medal bar, mounted to a cardstock backing, with “George R.I. 1940” facsimile signature, measures 
30cm (w) x 38 cm (h), reverse marked with tape and scuffs, very fine. 

Footnote: George VI (1895–1952) was King of the United Kingdom and the Dominions of the British Commonwealth from 1936 until his death. Born Prince Albert, Duke of York, he was the second son of George V and was not expected to inherit the throne. However, the abdication of his brother, Edward VIII, in 1936 propelled him to kingship during a time of mounting global tension.

George VI is best remembered for his leadership during the Second World War, when he became a symbol of national unity and resilience. Despite a lifelong struggle with a speech impediment, he worked diligently to overcome it, notably with the help of his speech therapist, Lionel Logue. Together with his wife, Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, he remained in London during the Blitz, boosting public morale.

His reign also saw the gradual transformation of the British Empire into the Commonwealth of Nations. He was succeeded in 1952 by his daughter, Elizabeth II.