The president of Mexico received one of the more unusual gifts given by the Queen during an incoming state visit today - a copy of the classic dystopian novel 1984.
At Buckingham Palace, Felipe Calderon was presented with a first edition of George Orwell's nightmarish book, which tells of a totalitarian regime and coined the concept Big Brother.
The Royal Household seeks guidance from the staff of incoming VIPs when deciding what to offer during the official exchange of gifts.
A Palace spokeswoman said: "Apparently the president really admires George Orwell."
The 1949 book was boxed in leather by the bindery at Windsor.
Mr Calderon also received the traditional present given to guests - framed photographs of the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh.
The president's wife Margarita Zavala received a small silver box with EIIR inscribed in gold on the lid.
The Queen received a Maque tray from Michoacan, the Mexican state from which the president comes. Philip received a wooden Olinala chest.
The exchange of gifts between rulers is a long-standing custom. In 1520 Henry VIII and Francis I of France exchanged gifts at the Field of Cloth of Gold in northern France.
During a state visit, the exchange usually happens on the first day and serves as a gesture of goodwill between the two nations.
No comments:
Post a Comment