Limited edition personalized Halcyon Days Enamels gift box donated by Princess Diana to an auction aimed at raising funds for a young cancer patient in July-August 1994. The hand-made and hand-enameled oval box, which measures 2.75 x 1.25 x 2, features 24k gold-plated fittings, with decorative flower patterns to the body and top, the latter bearing the monogram of Princess Diana and the underside inscribed with cursive text: “Presented by Her Royal Highness, The Princess of Wales.” Bottom of base features the Halcyon Days maker’s mark and is issued as Number 82. Includes the original blue presentation box with the cover featuring the Princess Diana monogram. In fine condition, with a tear to the front left corner of the box.
Accompanied by a newspaper clipping containing an image of the offered box with young Matthew Seeley, who “underwent months of chemotherapy after being diagnosed last September. Last month, doctors told him the cancer had not returned. Neighbours have started the fund to send him on the well-deserved holiday to Disneyland.” Also included is a transmittal letter from Patrick Jephson, the private secretary and equerry to Diana, Princess of Wales: “Thank you for your letter of 5th July which I have taken an early opportunity to lay before The Princess of Wales. As Patron of the Malcolm Sargent Cancer Fund for Children, Her Royal Highness was most interested to learn of the auction you are holding and would be delighted to make a small contribution to the occasion. I have pleasure in enclosing a limited edition hand painted Halcyon Days Box which The Princess hopes may prove a useful addition to the auction list.”
