King Charles III glances to his right at something or someone that has captured his attention. It is a look of warm appreciation… perhaps a well-wisher or a smartly dress cadet.
Meanwhile, Queen Camilla, in bright blue and holding a grey handbag, walks alongside her husband, looking slightly down, a moment of calm before the next event in a busy schedule.
Behind them, the pomp and regalia of Jersey in all its finery: robes, toques and feathered hats, as the island welcomes its Monarch, the first visit by a reigning Sovereign since Her Late Majesty The Queen’s visit in 2005.
It is a snapshot captured by artist Jason Butler in a portrait commissioned to mark the event last July, which was unveiled by the King’s sister, the Princess Royal, this week.
Mr Butler worked on the piece on and off for five months, using several photos taken on the day by photographer Max Burnett to recreate that moment.
Behind the King and Queen, several faces are clearly recognisable: the Lieutenant-Governor, Vice-Admiral Sir Jerry Kyd on the left; the Dean, the Very Rev Mike Keirle to the right of the King’s head, the then Bailiff, Sir Timothy Le Cocq, in between the couple, and the lofty figure of Assistant Magistrate and former Judicial Greffier Adam Clarke, looking in on the action from the far right.
Mr Butler said: “I wanted to focus on Their Majesties’ genuine enjoyment of the occasion and the obvious connection they had with the many people who came to be a part of it all.
“The image of them walking through the rain, smiling and engaging with islanders, felt like the truest reflection of that day.”
The Bailiff, Robert MacRae, said: “This portrait will stand as a lasting reminder of Their Majesties’ visit to Jersey, of the island’s enduring loyalty to the Crown, and of the deep and long-standing bond between the Crown and the people of Jersey.
“We are honoured that Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal graciously unveiled it for us.”
The portrait is now on public display in the Royal Court Building, Royal Square, and may be viewed:
- Monday to Friday: 09:00 – 17:00
- Saturday 8 November and Saturday 15 November: 10:00 – 15:00
Admission is free. Visitors are asked to use the main entrance to the Royal Court Building in the Royal Square.
