Buckingham Palace Exhibition Unveils Century of Royal Portraits

A new exhibition at Buckingham Palace, titled "Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography," opens to the public on May 17, 2024, showcasing over 150 photographic prints that chronicle the evolution of royal portraiture from the 1920s to the present day. This exhibition not only highlights the artistry behind royal photography but also addresses contemporary issues surrounding image manipulation, particularly in light of recent controversies involving members of the royal family.

The exhibition features a diverse array of works from renowned photographers, including iconic images of the British royal family captured by figures such as Cecil Beaton, Annie Leibovitz, and Andy Warhol. Among the highlights is a never-before-seen photograph from 1964, depicting four royal mothers—each holding their newborns—taken by the husband of one of the mothers. This intimate image serves as a poignant reminder of the personal lives behind the public personas of the royals.

In March 2024, a family photograph released by the Princess of Wales sparked significant debate due to allegations of digital manipulation. The Princess later acknowledged her editing choices, stating, “like many amateur photographers, I do occasionally experiment with editing.” This incident prompted the exhibition's curators to include a dedicated section on the history and significance of retouching in royal portraiture, emphasizing that such practices have been integral to the art of photography since its inception.

Curator Alessandro Nasini explained that retouching is a vital tool for photographers, allowing them to translate their creative visions into compelling images. The exhibition includes historical examples of retouched photographs, alongside letters and annotations from photographers discussing their artistic choices. For instance, a letter from Beaton reveals his meticulous attention to detail, as he noted adjustments needed for a portrait of Prince Philip, highlighting the collaborative nature of royal photography.

The exhibition also features a range of styles and techniques that reflect the changing nature of royal representation over the past century. From the glamorous, high-society portraits of the 1920s to more candid and informal images, the collection illustrates how royal photography has evolved alongside societal changes. The juxtaposition of a 1923 engagement portrait with a 2023 coronation image of the current king underscores this progression, showcasing the transition from analog to digital photography.

Among the notable pieces is Warhol's vibrant screenprint of Queen Elizabeth II, adorned with diamond dust, which exemplifies the playful experimentation of the 1980s. The exhibition also includes a touching black-and-white portrait of the late queen, captured in natural light, which stands in stark contrast to the more stylized images of her earlier years.

The exhibition runs until October 6, 2024, and aims to provide visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at the creative processes involved in royal portraiture. It features not only the final prints but also contact sheets, proofs, and correspondence that reveal the intricate negotiations between photographers and the royal family regarding image selection and presentation.

In a broader context, this exhibition reflects ongoing discussions about authenticity and representation in the age of social media, where image manipulation is commonplace. By addressing the complexities of retouching and the artistic choices behind royal portraits, the exhibition invites viewers to consider the balance between public image and personal reality.

Tickets for the exhibition are priced at £19 for adults, with concessions available for young people and those with disabilities. A special £1 ticket offer is also available for individuals receiving certain benefits, ensuring that the exhibition is accessible to a wider audience.

As the royal family continues to navigate the challenges of modernity, this exhibition serves as a reminder of the enduring power of photography to capture not just the public figures they portray, but also the intimate moments that define their humanity.