The Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie, celebrates her milestone 60th birthday with the unveiling of an official portrait. The photo, taken by rising star Christina Ebenezer, captures Sophie’s relaxed and happy demeanor as she sits in a window seat at her Surrey home.
Sophie Marks 60th Birthday with New Portrait
A new portrait of the Duchess of Edinburgh has been released to celebrate her milestone 60th birthday. The photo, taken by London-based fashion photographer Christina Ebenezer earlier this month, shows Sophie looking relaxed and happy as she perches in a window seat at her Surrey home.
A Growing Public Profile
Sophie’s public profile has grown significantly in recent years, with her being hailed as a dependable figure in the slimmed-down working monarchy. This growth is largely due to the departures of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex and Prince Andrew, as well as the King and Princess of Wales‘s health troubles.
Commitment to Gender Equality
As Sophie turns 60, she has expressed a renewed sense of commitment to her gender equality work. Buckingham Palace stated that she looks forward to further championing this issue in the future. This dedication is a testament to Sophie’s ongoing efforts to promote equality and support survivors of conflict-related sexual violence.
A Supportive Partnership
Buckingham Palace revealed that Sophie was interested in Ebenezer’s style of photography and wanted to support a rising female photographer. The portrait, taken at Bagshot Park, shows the duchess wearing a black turtleneck jumper and a pleated cream skirt. This collaboration highlights Sophie’s commitment to empowering women and promoting their work.
A Promising Photographer
Christina Ebenezer, born in Lagos, Nigeria, has previously been recognized as a Forbes 30 Under 30 arts and culture leader and a British Fashion Council New Wave Creative. Two of her portraits – of British actresses Michaela Coel and Letitia Wright – were unveiled at the National Portrait Gallery last year.
Sophie will mark her birthday on Monday privately at home with the Duke of Edinburgh. The Palace’s statement emphasizes Sophie’s dedication to her work and her commitment to promoting gender equality in the future.
