September 9, 2022

Queen Elizabeth II completes her legendary life at the age of 96, reviewing 10 classic portraits to relive the queen’s transcendent charm.

by Ruby Yiu

Buckingham Palace announced on Thursday (September 8) that Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom passed away peacefully at Balmoral Castle at the age of 96. The Queen reigned for 70 years, making her the longest-reigning monarch in British history. Known for her elegant and approachable image, she was deeply loved by the people. With the fall of this legendary queen, it also symbolizes the end of an era.

Since ascending to the throne in 1952, the Queen of England has been actively involved in promoting arts, music, drama, and other cultural activities. She has participated in numerous performances at the Royal Command Performance, allowing people from all walks of life to enjoy the arts. She also oversees the management of the royal art collection, which is incredibly vast. It is conservatively estimated to include 7,600 paintings, 2,000 miniatures, over 500,000 prints and drawings, as well as a large number of ceramics, clocks, furniture, photographs, and various types of jewelry.

In addition to being an art advocate, Queen Elizabeth II’s own image has inspired many artists’ creations. In 2012, a portrait exhibition celebrating her 60th anniversary showcased portraits and photographs of the Queen from different periods. Here are some selected artworks themed around Elizabeth II, allowing us to reminisce about the queen’s transcendent charm and regal elegance.