The latest episode of the BBC's art investigation series, "Fake or Fortune?", explored the potential authenticity of an exquisite gold and enamel lily, uncovering an unexpected link to the late Queen Elizabeth II.
Art dealers Philip Mould and Fiona Bruce spent the episode meticulously examining the lily, employing X-rays, chemical analysis, and archival research. Their investigation pointed towards the piece being the work of renowned Russian jeweler Peter Carl Faberge. The provenance appeared strong, including a photograph of the lily in a vase, which was reportedly displayed in the collection of a prominent Faberge collector.
Despite the compelling evidence, the lily's owner, Rachael Randles, faced disappointment when auction house Bonhams declined to re-evaluate the piece, having previously dismissed it. If genuine, the lily could have been valued at £300,000, but as an uncertified piece, its worth was estimated at around £4,000.
Randles inherited the lily from her step-grandmother, Mary Smith. Smith's husband, Austin Smith, was a solicitor who reportedly provided legal counsel to exiled European royal families, including King Peter II of Yugoslavia and Queen Helen of Romania. It was Queen Helen, a known Faberge connoisseur, who bequeathed the lily to Mary Smith. Queen Helen was also a first cousin to Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.
During their research, Bruce discovered a telegram sent to Mary Smith in March 1987, following Austin Smith's death. The telegram offered "heartfelt sympathy to you and your family on your grievous loss" and was signed "Elizabeth R."