Copenhagen (1808-36) – Wellington’s favourite war horse – accompanied the duke in a number of battles and was ridden in parades and ceremonial events after retirement. On a marble headstone at the duke’s estate at Stratfield Saye is the inscription: God’s humbler instrument, though meaner clay should share the glory of that glorious day.
The memorial plaited hair bracelet was among the more unusual items in the Jewellery, Watches and Objects of Vertu sale held by Dix Noonan Webb (20% buyer’s premium) in Mayfair on June 26. Estimated at £800-1200, it took £1500.