The Charitable Patron

The much loved and fondly remembered Iona Colquhoun was a woman of many passions — an accomplished and award-winning rifle shot, scuba diver, first female Keeper of The Quaich and needlework artist, she delighted in the contradictions of her pastimes.

So, it is with these beautiful and delicate opera glasses that we record Iona’s role as society hostess and patron of the arts — particularly her long service as President of the Royal Caledonian Ball, held annually in London for the benefit of Scottish charities.

With few exceptions, the Royal Caledonian Ball has been held annually since 1849 and is the oldest charity ball in the world. It was under Iona Colquhoun’s tender guidance that this colourful gathering was to re-emerge as one of the most in-demand and glamorous events of the London season.