Charles’ Coronation portraits reveal King’s ‘appreciation’ of one family member, says expert

2023-05-09

King Charles’ firstofficial portraits following theCoronation showed his appreciation of sisterPrincess Anne, a Royal expert said.

The new set of photographs, released on Monday, gave an insight into the new monarch’s idea of a slimmed-down monarchy – with one image of the Royal Family together showing him flanked by the Princess Royal on one side and his wifeQueen Consort Camilla on the other.

Taken in Buckingham Palace's Throne Room, the picture is a portrait of The Firm as it now stands in 2023 – withPrince Harry notable by his absence.

It was captured by experienced photographer Hugo Burnand, who in his 20 years of photographing the family both in public and private has covered events including the weddings of both Charles and Camilla andPrince William andKate Middleton.

And Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams said Princess Anne's proximity to the King in the group portrait – appearing at the King’s right hand – 'is no accident'.

He toldMailOnline: “She's experienced and hard-working. Anne's been at it a long long time, she knows the ropes. The King knows how popular she is.

“It shows how much he appreciates her and how much he will be relying on her, she is extremely popular and has a high profile. People know who she is and respect her, that's very important.”

Mr Fitzwilliams went on to say the striking new solo portrait of King Charles showed him as a “monarch who knows his own mind” while Queen Camilla appeared “more relaxed and comfortable” in her solo portrait than she did in during Saturday’s historic Westminster Abbey coronation ceremony, which was watched by millions worldwide.

A final picture showed the new King and Queen united together as they posed in the Throne Room.

In addition to the photographs, the King also shared a message in which he gave his “heartfelt thanks” to all those who helped make the historic occasion a reality.

The statement began: “As the Coronation weekend draws to a close, my wife and I just wanted to share our most sincere and heartfelt thanks to all those who have helped to make this such a special occasion.

“We pay particular tribute to the countless people who have given their time and dedication to ensuring that the celebrations in London, Windsor and further afield were as happy, safe and enjoyable as possible.”

He added: “To those who joined in the celebrations – whether at home, at street parties and lunches, or by volunteering in communities – we thank you, each and every one.

“To know that we have your support and encouragement, and to witness your kindness expressed in so many different ways, has been the greatest possible Coronation gift, as we now rededicate our lives to serving the people of the United Kingdom, the Realms and Commonwealth.”

The photographs and message came after a historic weekendwhich saw 20.4 million people tune in to watch Charles be crowned King.

And as part of the occasion, a series of celebratory events took place up and down the country, including theCoronation Concert andThe Big Help Out.

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