Photograph of Queen Elizabeth, later Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother (1900-2002) standing beside the Waterloo Vase on the grounds of  Buckingham Palace. She faces three quarters to the left and holds a parasol. She wears long white gloves, three pearl necklaces and a white tulle and lace dress with a matching, wide-brimmed hat.

The Waterloo Vase is made from a single piece of Carrara marble originally reserved by the Emperor Napoleon, but given to the Prince Regent in 1815. The vase, which is over 5 meters tall, is carved with allegorical scenes, flora decoration and two winged angels. It was intended as the centrepiece of the Waterloo Chamber, but was too heavy for the floor to bear and now stands in the gardens at Buckingham Palace.