For centuries, the formal painted portrait - usually oil on canvas - was the only image presented of Britain’s kings and queens. But today we can see glorious photographs from all 60 years of Queen Elizabeth II’s reign.
Her Majesty has travelled more than any other monarch in history, and since 1952 has made more than 250 official visits to 131 countries. Colourful photographs document a number of these trips overseas.
The Queen: 60 Photographs for 60 Years, an exhibition at Windsor Castle, includes photos of her performing official duties. She has met 12 prime ministers and 12 American presidents, and we see images of her with John F. Kennedy, Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher.
There are photographs of the Queen during official trips, and other, more intimate images that capture important milestones, such as the black-and-white portrait taken by fellow octogenarian Jane Bown to mark Her Majesty’s 80th birthday.
There are informal photographs too, showing the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh, sometimes with other members of the family, in more relaxed mode.
This exhibition highlights the Queen’s personal involvement in the life of the nation, but there are both officially approved and spontaneous images.
It captures her love of horses - an image from 1957 shows Her Majesty leading her filly Carrozza, with Lester Piggott in the saddle, after winning the Oaks race at Epsom - and her renowned delight in the company of her beloved corgi and dorgi dogs. This exhibition is a delightful portrait of a very modern monarch.
The Queen: 60 Photographs for 60 Years is on display at Windsor Castle until 28 October. For more information, visit www.royalcollection.org.uk or call 0207 766 7304
What else?
If you can’t get to the exhibition at Windsor, decorate your classroom with royal family photos using claireh1039‘s posters.
Queen Victoria was the first British monarch to be photographed. Explore images of her and her family in a resource pack from nationalarchives.
IN THE FORUMS
Art teachers are looking for advice on photographers whose images could be used to explore the concept of Britishness.
Find all links and resources at www.tes.co.ukresources035.
