Carlton House Fête (1811)

On 19 June 1811, the Prince Regent hosted a grand reception at Carlton House in London. Ostensibly honoring Louis XVIII and the exiled French royal family, the event primarily celebrated the establishment of his own regency, which had begun in February 1811.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. Carlton House served as the town residence of George IV during the regency era. The Prince Regent altered and redecorated the house to suit its increasing use as a palace in all but name. This setting provided the ceremonial context for the 1811 reception, reflecting the Prince's status and the political transition following the Regency Act.

Purpose. The reception was ostensibly held to honor Louis XVIII and the exiled French royal family. However, the primary motivation was to celebrate the establishment of the Prince Regent's own regency. This dual purpose highlights the political significance of the event, marking the formal commencement of the Prince's governance powers under the 1811 Act.

Setting. Carlton House was a spacious and opulent residence, designated a palace in many countries. The house had been refurbished by the Prince of Wales, who received possession in 1783. By 1811, it had been altered to suit its increasing use as a palace, providing an appropriate venue for a grand reception celebrating the new regency.

People involved

Sources

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