Amidst a wave of transition and anticipation, the Danish royal household has bestowed upon the world the inaugural gala portraits of King Frederik X and Queen Mary. These resplendent images symbolize the couple’s ascension to the Danish throne on January 14, following the unexpected abdication of Queen Margrethe during her New Year’s Eve address.
The portraits, unveiled with great pomp and circumstance, will find their prestigious place adorning the walls of official edifices across Denmark and Danish embassies worldwide. Australian-born Queen Mary, radiating regality, adorns the historic Danish Emerald Parure for the first time in these portraits. This iconic ensemble, comprising a tiara, earrings, necklace, and brooch, stands as a testament to the rich heritage accompanying her new title.
As Queen, Mary inherits access to an illustrious array of adornments, including four garnitures distinguished by their impeccable craftsmanship and historical significance. Among these treasures, the emerald set shines uniquely with its accompanying tiara, a cherished emblem of Danish royalty. Typically reserved for display within The Treasury at Rosenborg Castle, these jewels have now found their moment to gleam alongside their rightful wearer.
In a gesture of unity and sovereignty, Queen Mary proudly dons the Ordensportrættet, a brooch adorned with the portrait of King Frederik. This symbolic accessory, pinned close to her heart, signifies their joint commitment to the Danish people and their shared responsibilities as monarchs. Her attire, meticulously crafted by designer Birgit Hallstein, exudes elegance and tradition, with its silk velvet embellished by delicate lace, a fitting garment for a queen’s portrait.
Hallstein’s craftsmanship extends beyond mere attire; she played a pivotal role in shaping Queen Mary’s public image, having contributed to both her proclamation ensemble and her iconic wedding gown in 2004. The choice of fabric for this new dress harkens back to Queen Mary’s renowned burgundy velvet gown, a garment that has accompanied her through significant moments in her royal journey.
In this ceremonial portrait, Queen Mary’s ensemble is further elevated by the Collar of the Order of the Elephant, Denmark’s highest honor, gracefully draped across her shoulders. King Frederik, resplendent in military regalia, stands alongside his queen, his own Collar of the Order of the Elephant adorning his chest. Together, they embody the dignity and duty incumbent upon the Danish monarchy.
Captured within the historic confines of the Green Room in The Royal Reception Rooms at Christiansborg Palace, the gala portrait immortalizes a momentous chapter in Danish history. Photographer Steen Evald skillfully preserves the grandeur and gravitas of the occasion, ensuring that the legacy of King Frederik X and Queen Mary is etched indelibly into the annals of royalty.
As the Danish royal household aptly declares, “The King and The Queen have thus had their portrait made at the historic palace in Copenhagen where successive kings and queens have stayed over time,” underscoring the continuity and tradition inherent in their reign. With this unveiling, King Frederik X and Queen Mary step confidently into their roles, poised to lead Denmark with grace and resolve.
