Baby cap worn by Prince Edward, Duke of Kent

This baby's cap belonged to George III's (1738-1820) fifth child, Prince Edward, Duke of Kent (1767-1820), father of Queen Victoria (1819-1901).

The cap was given as a gift to Edward's wet nurse, Anne Percy when she retired. Anne Percy's fifth child, Charlotte Percy, was born in September 1767 and Prince Edward was born two months later in November 1767. The introduction of Anne to the Royal Household, probably came through her husband, Thomas Percy, the King's Chaplain. She was employed by the royal family until 1769. It was usual to give items of royal clothing to reward staff in the Royal Household.

The cap was painstakingly made by hand. The decorative crown insert is made from a type of needle lace called hollie stitch or hollie point. Panels of lace are set between panels of pleated cloth, creating a light and breatable garment. It is trimmed with a fine bobbin lace edge.