Senior royal women to wear miniature portraits of the monarch in symbolic show of unity
King Charles has reportedly reinstated a centuries-old royal tradition, requesting that senior female members of the royal family wear miniature portraits of the monarch during the upcoming State Banquet for French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron.
This elegant yet symbolic gesture, set to take place at Windsor Castle, is meant to reinforce respect for the Crown and display a united front within the royal family.
The miniature portrait, painted by esteemed artist Elizabeth Meek, captures King Charles in full Admiral of the Fleet regalia. Framed with jewelled embellishments and topped with a sparkling crown motif, the artwork is suspended from a white ribbon. Its reverse side bears the King’s CR cypher and another crown image. The piece was originally created for the Japanese state visit last year and took over 100 hours to complete.
While the tradition of royal women wearing such portraits dates back more than 200 years, this revival marks the King’s intention to subtly reinforce royal values and visual continuity within his court.
It remains unconfirmed whether Princess Catherine will be among the senior royals attending the banquet, as Kensington Palace has yet to confirm her participation. However, she and Prince William are expected to play a key role at the start of the State Visit on July 8, when they greet President Macron and his wife at RAF Northolt on behalf of King Charles.
