A piece of cake from Queen Victoria and Prince Albert’s 1840 wedding is among the items in a new exhibition in London.

The sweet treat – part of a 300lb cake that was served when the monarch married Prince Albert in 1840 – forms part of the ‘Famous and Infamous’ exhibition at London auction house Christie’s, and can be seen until September 2.

The cake is displayed in an engraved presentation box and was loaned by David Gainsborough Roberts.

The retired banker is also allowing the auctioneers to display other memorabilia he owns, including many costumes worn by Marilyn Monroe, a section of the flag Lord Nelson died on and a set of keys belonging to a member of the crew who survived the Titanic.

He said: “I hope all you fellow collectors enjoy this small selection of highlights from my collection.”

Also on display are the desert robes and Arab headdress worn by T.E. Lawrence, a set of cufflinks belonging to John Lennon, and a stetson once owned by Western star John Wayne.

Admission to the exhibition is free.