BEHIND THE PORTRAIT

We reveal the extraordinary details of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee photograph

It is the very picture of solemn dignity – with the hint of a smile. Sixty years after the 25-year-old Princess Elizabeth heard of her father’s death and acceded to the throne, a new commemorative portrait of the Queen and Prince Philip has been released. And as her Diamond Jubilee year begins, it shows the Queen – and the 90-year-old Prince – as vibrant as ever. The photograph, taken in Buckingham Palace last December by photographer John Swannell, captures the 85-year-old Queen – and eight times grandmother – in all her finery.

The Queen wears
THE STATE DIADEM The circlet of diamonds dates back to 1820 and was worn by the Queen on her Coronation
Day in 1953.
STATE DRESS Created in Buckingham Palace by her senior dresser, Angela Kelly, this ornate garment is made from silk, satin, lace and sequins.
QUEEN VICTORIA’S COLLET NECKLACE Worn by Queen Victoria for her own Diamond Jubilee photograph (issued in 1897).
THE GARTER STAR The Most Noble Order of the Garter is the highest English Order of chivalry.
THE GARTER RIBAND The blue sash bears the Royal Family Orders of George V and George VI (the Queen’s
grandfather and father). 

Prince Philip wears
ROYAL NAVY CEREMONIAL DAY DRESS (Admiral of the Fleet).
GARTER SASH
MEDALS The Prince is wearing 16 medals. From left to right, they are Queen’s Service Order, New Zealand; 1939-1945 Star; Atlantic Star; Africa Star; Burma Star (with Pacifi c Rosette); Italy Star; War Medal 1939-1945, with
Mention in Dispatches; King George VI Coronation Medal, 1937; Queen Elizabeth II Coronation Medal, 1953; Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Medal, 1977; Queen Elizabeth II Golden Jubilee Medal, 2002; Canadian Forces Decoration (4 Bars); New Zealand Commemoration Medal, 1990; Malta George Cross 50th Anniversary Medal, 1992; Greek War Cross, 1950; Croix de Guerre (France) with Palm, 1948.