Rare Royal Treasures: A Century of Intimate Royal Portraits Unveiled at Holyroodhouse
Exhibition offers unprecedented glimpse into the changing face of the monarchy through photography
In a significant addition to this season's royal calendar, the Palace of Holyroodhouse has opened its doors to a remarkable collection of royal photographic portraits spanning 100 years of monarchical history. The exhibition, which showcases original vintage prints from the Royal Collection and Royal Archives, offers devotees of the Royal Family a rare opportunity to view images that have helped shape the public's perception of the monarchy across generations.
"Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography" presents more than 90 carefully selected photographs, many of which have never before been displayed in Scotland. The exhibition's crown jewel is undoubtedly Andy Warhol's vibrant 1985 screenprint of Queen Elizabeth II, complete with the artist's signature diamond dust finish – a fascinating example of how the late Queen's image transcended traditional royal portraiture to become a true cultural icon.
Royal historians will appreciate the exhibition's meticulous chronology, beginning with formal portraits from the 1920s and progressing through to the official coronation photographs of His Majesty King Charles III taken by Hugo Burnand last year. Each image offers insight into not only the changing styles of photography but also the evolving public presentation of the monarchy.
The collection features several historically significant images, including Cecil Beaton's official coronation portraits of Queen Elizabeth II – images that defined how a generation of Britons visualized their young Queen. The exhibition also includes Beaton's work spanning six decades of royal service, demonstrating his unparalleled access to and understanding of the Royal Family.
Of particular interest to those who follow royal fashion are several portraits showcasing iconic royal style moments. These include the Queen Mother's 1939 Norman Hartnell-gown photoshoot in Buckingham Palace gardens – images that cemented her reputation as a fashion-forward royal during a pivotal pre-war period.
The Scottish connections throughout the exhibition are numerous and noteworthy. A striking 2010 portrait shows the late Queen at her beloved Balmoral, dressed in the mantle of the Order of the Thistle against the dramatic backdrop of the Highlands – an image that pays homage to traditional Scottish clan chief portraits. Another significant Scottish highlight is the 1966 photograph marking the then Prince Charles's 18th birthday, showing the future king in Balmoral tartan within the castle's historic library.
Alessandro Nasini, curator of the exhibition, explained the unique opportunity this collection presents: "While many of these images may be familiar in reproduction, seeing the original prints reveals details and qualities that digital versions simply cannot capture. For conservation reasons, these delicate originals can rarely be displayed, making this exhibition a truly special occasion for royal enthusiasts."
The exhibition traces how each generation of royal photographers has balanced tradition with innovation. From Dorothy Wilding's crisp, formal portraits used for postage stamps and currency, to David Bailey's more relaxed and contemporary approach, visitors can witness the monarchy's visual evolution through the 20th and into the 21st century.
"Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography" runs until 7th September at The King's Gallery in the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The exhibition is included in palace admission, with special guided tours available on selected dates for those seeking deeper insights into these remarkable royal images.
