Queen Camilla made headlines at Tuesday’s State Banquet for the visiting Japanese royals by debuting King Charles’ new family order. This tradition, dating back to the 1820s during the reign of King George IV, has typically involved female members of the royal family wearing a portrait of the monarch. However, what set Camilla’s family order apart was the material used: polymin, a synthetic translucent treated plastic sheet. This departure from the traditional ivory material was a nod to King Charles’ ecological credentials, showcasing a move towards more sustainable practices within the royal family.
The stunning portrait featured the King dressed in military uniform, adorned with his medals, and surrounded by 10.41 carats of diamonds from the Royal Collection. The design, created by Elizabeth Meek, also included a blue ribbon designed by the Queen’s favourite milliner, Philip Treacy. Camilla was the sole female royal in attendance to wear the new family order at the banquet, with others likely to follow suit in the future. This shift in material choice for the family order reflects a broader trend towards environmentally friendly practices, as seen in Prince William’s own conservation work and the ongoing efforts to combat the ivory trade.
HELLO!’s Royal Editor, Emily Nash, highlighted the significance of the state visit in fostering strong diplomatic relations between the UK and Japan. The red carpet treatment extended to the Emperor and Empress and their delegation demonstrated the importance of this partnership. Sending the Prince of Wales to escort the royal visitors further underscored the gravity of the occasion, signaling the UK government’s commitment to strengthening ties with Japan. Amidst the upcoming general election, some aspects of the state visit had to be adjusted due to the campaign schedules of party leaders, showcasing the delicate balance between politics and diplomacy.
Notably, senior royals such as the Princess of Wales and Princess Anne were absent from the state visit for health reasons. Kate is currently recovering from cancer, while Anne is hospitalized following a concussion. These health-related issues have necessitated adjustments to the royal family’s participation in the events surrounding the state visit. The program for the week was slightly adapted to accommodate the sensitive pre-election period, with certain traditional elements, such as Downing Street talks and meetings with opposition leaders, being omitted. Despite these changes, the state visit remained a significant diplomatic undertaking, highlighting the UK’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships.
Queen Camilla’s decision to debut King Charles’ new family order made a bold statement about the royal family’s commitment to sustainability and responsible practices. The use of polymin instead of traditional ivory marked a departure from convention, reflecting a broader trend towards environmental consciousness within the monarchy. As the royal family navigates the complexities of diplomatic engagements and political sensitivities, the symbolism of Camilla’s family order serves as a poignant reminder of the need for adaptation and innovation in the modern era.
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