…Researched and contributed by Jack Sylva.
Kensington Palace has shared an unseen photograph of Queen Elizabeth II surrounded by some of her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren at Balmoral in August, shortly before her death.
The Princess of Wales captured the photo, which was released by Kensington Palace on what would have been the Queen’s 97th birthday.
The impromptu portrait shows Her Majesty happy and relaxed in the Scottish Highlands, one of her favorite places.
The family members in the picture include Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor, James, Earl of Wessex, Lena Tindall, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Isla Phillips, Prince Louis, Mia Tindall, Lucas Tindall, and Savannah Phillips.
The Queen passed away on September 8, 2022, at her home in Aberdeenshire, leading to a period of mourning in the UK and around the world.
The photograph showcases the Queen’s love for her family and the joy she found in spending time with them.
Her Majesty had eight grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren at the time of her death.
In July, Camilla, now Queen Consort, praised the Duchess of Cambridge’s photography skills as “very natural” and revealed a picture that Prince Charles “approves of” that was taken “in the garden with lots of laughs.”
Camilla was guest editing Country Life magazine, which featured a photograph of herself taken by Kate on its front page.
Earlier today, the Royal Family paid tribute to the Queen on social media with a picture of her on duty and a message saying, “Today we remember the incredible life and legacy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, on what would have been her 97th birthday.”
The Queen had celebrated her Platinum Jubilee before passing away, having reigned for 70 years.
The photograph released by Kensington Palace is a poignant reminder of the Queen’s love for her family and her joyful spirit.