In September 2015, Queen Elizabeth II became the longest reigning British monarch, surpassing Queen Victoria, who ruled for sixty-three years, seven months, and two days. To commemorate this momentous occasion, Buckingham Palace played host to a weekend of royally endorsed festivities. But even if you were not among the thousands who turned out to give a tip of the hat to this impressive achievement, you can join the celebration now with Long to Reign Over Us, Royal Collection Trust's official souvenir guide. With a wealth of newly published photographs, Long to Reign Over Us takes readers through seven decades in the life of one of the most well-loved rulers in history. Beginning with The Queen's Coronation ceremony in 1953, the book continues through the Silver, Golden, and Diamond Jubilee celebrations up to the present day, passing on its way numerous events of world significance. In addition to chronicling the events of her reign, the book contains a selection of the most famous portraits of The Queen, including Dorothy Wilding's iconic photograph, taken just twenty days after she became queen, and Jane Brown's sensitive eightieth birthday portrait. But it also captures many informal moments, showing the Queen at her writing desk, relaxing with other members of the Royal Family, or flanked by a pair of hardy Highland ponies. Whatever the occasion, one can count on the Queen to be beautifully adorned and tastefully dressed, and the book also includes photographs of jewelry and dresses, as well as rare gifts given by visiting heads of state. Published on the occasion of an exhibition traveling to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh, and Windsor Castle, Long to Reign Over Us makes the perfect memento of this historic record.
