The Princess of Wales pulls surprise move that cements royal tradition

Just when we thought they’d forgotten, William and Kate have
cemented a brand new tradition with a surprise move.

Almost 24 hours after the glittering State Banquet at Windsor
Castle, held in honour of Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu, the
Prince and Princess of Wales shared a striking new portrait of them
taken just before the gala event.

The last three State Visits had seen the couple release a formal
photo of themselves ahead of the State Dinner but the event for the
President of Nigeria had passed without any behind the scenes
glimpse leaving a new tradition seemingly in question.

However, as day two of the Nigerian State Visit progressed,
William and Kate revealed they did have a gala portrait taken, and
ensured this special photo of them at one of the most important of
royal events is here to stay.

The couple also underlined their diplomatic role in this State
Visit by choosing a British Nigerian photographer to take the
shot.

Christianah Ebenezer, whose work has
been shown at the National Portrait Gallery, said it was an ”true
honour” to take the photo.

The artist, who has talked before about taking inspiration from
cinematography for her work, said ”blending our shared creativity
with elements of classic portraiture and nature, the team worked
seamlessly to capture this moment ahead of the Nigerian State
Banquet – something I’m deeply humbled to have seen come together
so beautifully”

The portrait showed Kate in a striking green dress by designer
Andrew Gn which she paired with the creamy white pearl and diamond
Lover’s Knot Tiara, making a nod to both colours on the flag of
Nigeria. Earlier, the Princess of
Wales had worn a coat dress by British Nigerian designer, Tolu
Coker, to welcome President TInubu and his wife, Remi, to
Windsor ahead of the official ceremonial start of the State
Visit.

As they shared this brand new portrait, William and Kate said
”