The display includes images too delicate to be on permanent view.
Buckingham Palace is thrilled to announce the unveiling of an extraordinary collection of previously unseen photos from the royal archives.
Set to open on May 17 at The King’s Gallery within Buckingham Palace, the special exhibit titled “Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography” will showcase the evolution of royal portrait photography from the 1920s to modern times. Featuring over 150 unique items from the Royal Collection and Royal Archives, many of these vintage prints will be on display for the very first time. The exhibition also includes archival correspondence and unseen proofs, providing a fascinating glimpse into the creative processes behind these historic images.
Among the standout pieces is a heartfelt photograph from 1964 of Queen Elizabeth, her sister Princess Margaret, Princess Alexandra, and the then-Duchess of Kent, all holding their newborns. Captured by Princess Margaret’s husband, Antony Armstrong-Jones, this touching image was a personalized thank-you to royal obstetrician Sir John Peel, who helped deliver all four babies within a two-month span. Queen Elizabeth beams at the camera, cradling the youngest of her four children, Prince Edward, while Princess Margaret lovingly holds her daughter, Lady Sarah.
Snowdon/Camera Press/Royal Collection Trust
Another poignant segment of the exhibit features photos of Queen Elizabeth’s parents, King George VI and the Queen Mother, during World War II. These images, taken by Cecil Beaton, were meant to instill a sense of stability and hope during turbulent times. A striking photograph of the royal couple inspecting bomb damage at Buckingham Palace in 1940 is particularly notable, alongside a charming 1943 family snapshot at Royal Lodge in Windsor, which captures a young Princess Elizabeth and Princess Margaret gathered around their father’s desk.
Snowdon/Camera Press/Royal Collection Trust
Due to conservation requirements, the Royal Collection Trust notes that these vintage images cannot be on permanent display, adding to the excitement and exclusivity of this event. The exhibit spans an impressive range of eras, from the earliest color photo of a royal family member to Queen Elizabeth’s coronation portrait in 1953, a 1985 Andy Warhol glittering portrait of the Queen, and even Kate Middleton’s striking 40th birthday portrait.
Interestingly, Kate’s milestone birthday portrait will be displayed alongside an 1864 portrait of Princess Alexandra, which it closely resembles.
Royal Collection Trust/His Majesty King Charles III 2024
Narrated by the beloved Dame Joanna Lumley, the audio guide for this captivating display also features insights from renowned photographers Rankin and John Swannell. Hugo Burnand, who has a longstanding professional relationship with King Charles and Queen Camilla, and who took their official coronation portraits in May 2023, has also contributed to the guide.
Photography by Paolo Reversi/Royal Collection Trust
For those keen on royal photography, this exhibit promises delightful surprises, including works by celebrated photographers such as Dorothy Wilding, Annie Leibovitz, Polly Borland, and David Bailey.
Make sure to mark your calendars! “Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography” opens at The King’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace on May 17. This is a rare opportunity to witness a singular collection of royal moments through the art of photography, bringing history to life before your eyes.
Royal Collection Trust/His Majesty King Charles III 2024
