Changes in Wales, resulting from industrialisation, the growth of non-conformity and improved transport led Romantics to record and preserve rapidly disappearing rural traditions. This included costume and the production of flannel. Among these were Lady Llanover and her circle. The Royal family’s brief and infrequent visits to Wales were accompanied by sycophantic reports of the cheering crowds who came out to greet them, and these included illustrations and comments on Welsh costume. By the 1880s, it was deemed necessary for some, at least, to wear Welsh costume at such events.

This exhibition took place at the National Library of Wales between 21 June and 4 October 2008.