Capturing History and Tradition: Prince Michael of Kent's Royal Portrait for the Coronation

May 19, 2023 RORY LEWIS

Capturing History and Tradition: Prince Michael of Kent's Royal Portrait for the Coronation (Rory Lewis Photographer 2023) London, New York & Los Angeles Portrait Photographer.

On May 6, 2023, the British Royal Family gathered at Westminster Abbey to witness the historic Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla. Among the distinguished guests were H.R.H Prince Michael of Kent and Princess Michael of Kent, who graced the occasion with their regal presence. Prince Michael, a member of the British Royal Family, holds a significant place in the lineage, being a paternal first cousin of Queen Elizabeth II and a grandson of King George V and Queen Mary. Prior to the grand event, a unique portrait of Prince Michael was commissioned at the London Studio, evoking a sense of history and tradition.

Prince Michael of Kent bears an uncanny resemblance to his great grandfather, Edward VII. Inspired by a portrait from Edward VII's era, the decision was made to capture a profile shot reminiscent of the king's military portraits. The chosen approach, with its harsh lighting, aimed to maintain a certain level of intensity while highlighting Prince Michael's distinguished features.

As Colonel of the King's Royal Hussars, Prince Michael's first set of portraits featured him adorned in his regimental uniform. Against a crimson backdrop, the color of royalty, the portrait not only paid tribute to the significance of the occasion but also represented the distinctive trousers and peak cap of the King's Royal Hussars. This unique feature, bestowed upon the regiment by Prince Albert, stemmed from their exceptional performance as his escort during his wedding procession.

Capturing History and Tradition: Prince Michael of Kent's Royal Portrait for the Coronation (Rory Lewis Photographer 2023) London, New York & Los Angeles Portrait Photographer.

For the second set of portraits, Prince Michael changed into his Household frock coat, symbolizing his position within the royal household. Set against a black backdrop and illuminated with harsher lighting, the intention was to create a more dramatic and emotionally charged image. Utilizing intense chiaroscuro, the portrait sought to evoke a sense of mystery and dutiful devotion.

The Royal portrait sitting proved to be a smooth and enjoyable experience, enabling the artist to capture history and tradition in a single frame. The artist's goal was to encapsulate the essence of Prince Michael's lineage and the significant roles he has played within the British monarchy. The result is a testament to the artist's skill and the subject's commitment to preserving the legacy of the Royal Family.

Prince Michael of Kent's portrait for the Coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla embodies the merging of history, tradition, and regal elegance. From the uncanny resemblance to his great grandfather to the homage paid to his regimental affiliation, each element of the portrait carries profound significance. The artist successfully captured the essence of Prince Michael's role within the British Royal Family, making this portrait an enduring testament to the legacy of a remarkable lineage.